India was elected as non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for a two-year term after winning 184 votes in the 193-member General Assembly.

India secures non-permanent UNSC seat | Elected from Asia-Pacific group

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday briefed the media after securing a seat in the United Nations Security Council. Vikas Swarup, Secretary

India: MEA briefs on India's election as Non-Permanent member at UNSC

Hours after India got elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (June 18) tweeted that he is “deeply grateful for the overwhelming support” of the nations that voted in support of India.

PM Modi thanks global community for support at UNSC

India secures non-permanent UNSC seat: Elected from Asia-Pacific group

India is the single endorsed candidate for the Asia-Pacific seat in the non-permanent member category. India is likely to be elected for the eighth time.

WION Dispatch: India needs 129 votes to secure Non-permanent seat in UNSC

UNSC election today: India is the only contender from the Asia-Pacific group

India is all set to secure a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). All 193 members of the United Nations General Assembly will be voting to fill the 5 vacancies at the security council. Watch report.

Election for UNSC seats today: India's path to non-permanent seat clear

The United Nations Human Rights Council is set to hold a debate on the ongoing crisis of racial discrimination clubbed with “ systemic racism, police brutality, and violence against peaceful protesters”.

According to UNHRC’s latest statement, the body will analyse related events in the United States.

The issue was brought to the body’s notice by African countries, and on a request made by Burkina Faso.

The United States does not hold the membership of the 47-member UNHRC in Geneva. Two years ago the US had quit the forum for its alleged bias against Israel.

<h6><img alt="People react on Highway 395 during a demonstration against racial inequality in the aftermath of the death in Minneapolis police custody of George Floyd, in Washington, U.S., June 14, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="10e9d976-6fa6-4f92-811f-870b32e263cf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_19.jpg" /> 
People react on Highway 395 during a demonstration against racial inequality in the aftermath of the death in Minneapolis police custody of George Floyd, in Washington, US, June 14, 2020 | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

"The death of George Floyd is unfortunately not an isolated incident," said the letter which was marked to UNHRC.

The letter referred to the murder of George Floyd, who was knelt on by a police officer, following which he died on May 25 in the US city of Minneapolis. This stirred nationwide protests that have now spawned into a global movement against racial injustice and police brutality.

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"The numbers of previous cases of unarmed people of African descent who met the same fate because of uncontrolled police violence are legion," the letter said.&nbsp;“The international outrage provoked by the death underlined the importance of the Human Rights Council discussing these issue”, it further&nbsp;said.

The letter also claimed that 600 activist groups and relatives of victims have demanded a special session to address racism.

Amid calls to defund the police, the Minneapolis City Council on Friday approved a resolution which would disband contemporary policing methods in favour of a community driven safety mechanism for the citizens.

Just on Friday, another Black man Rayshard Brooks was shot by the police in Atlanta, which spurred protests across the country again.

(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

The United Nations Human Rights Council is set to hold a debate on the ongoing crisis of racial discrimination clubbed with “ systemic racism, police brutality, and violence against peaceful protesters”.

The United Nations Human Rights Council is set to hold a debate on the ongoing crisis of racial discrimination clubbed with “ systemic racism, police brutality, and violence against peaceful protesters”. According to UNHRC’s latest statement, the body will analyse related events in the United States. The issue was brought to the body’s notice by African countries, and on a request made by Burkina Faso. The United States does not hold the membership of the 47-member UNHRC in Geneva. Two years ago the US had quit the forum for its alleged bias against Israel. People react on Highway 395 during a demonstration against racial inequality in the aftermath of the death in Minneapolis police custody of George Floyd, in Washington, US, June 14, 2020 | Reuters "The death of George Floyd is unfortunately not an isolated incident," said the letter which was marked to UNHRC. The letter referred to the murder of George Floyd, who was knelt on by a police officer, following which he died on May 25 in the US city of Minneapolis. This stirred nationwide protests that have now spawned into a global movement against racial injustice and police brutality. Also read: Virus has exposed deep-seated internal crises in US: Putin "The numbers of previous cases of unarmed people of African descent who met the same fate because of uncontrolled police violence are legion," the letter said. “The international outrage provoked by the death underlined the importance of the Human Rights Council discussing these issue”, it further said. The letter also claimed that 600 activist groups and relatives of victims have demanded a special session to address racism. Amid calls to defund the police, the Minneapolis City Council on Friday approved a resolution which would disband contemporary policing methods in favour of a community driven safety mechanism for the citizens. Just on Friday, another Black man Rayshard Brooks was shot by the police in Atlanta, which spurred protests across the country again. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

UN's human rights body to examine racism and police brutality in the United States

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

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

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

UN says coronavirus pandemic could push millions into child labour

The UN human rights office on Friday regretted the impact that US sanctions authorised by President Donald Trump may have on trials and investigations under way at the International Criminal Court (ICC), saying its independence must be protected.

Trump on Thursday authorised US economic and travel sanctions against employees of the Hague-based tribunal involved in an investigation into whether American forces committed war crimes in Afghanistan.

“The independence of the ICC and its ability to operate without interference must be guaranteed so that it can decide matters without any improper influence, inducement, pressures, threats or interference, direct or indirect, from any quarter or for any reasons,”&nbsp; 
UN human rights spokesman Rupert Colville told a briefing in Geneva. “Victims of gross human rights violations and serious violations of international humanitarian law and their families have the right to redress and the truth.”

The UN human rights office on Friday regretted the impact that US sanctions authorised by President Donald Trump may have on trials and investigations under way at the International Criminal Court (ICC), saying its independence must be protected.

The UN human rights office on Friday regretted the impact that US sanctions authorised by President Donald Trump may have on trials and investigations under way at the International Criminal Court (ICC), saying its independence must be protected. Trump on Thursday authorised US economic and travel sanctions against employees of the Hague-based tribunal involved in an investigation into whether American forces committed war crimes in Afghanistan. “The independence of the ICC and its ability to operate without interference must be guaranteed so that it can decide matters without any improper influence, inducement, pressures, threats or interference, direct or indirect, from any quarter or for any reasons,” UN human rights spokesman Rupert Colville told a briefing in Geneva. “Victims of gross human rights violations and serious violations of international humanitarian law and their families have the right to redress and the truth.”

UN regrets Trump move against ICC, says court must be protected

Pakistan's Foreign Office on Monday rejected what it called India's "malicious assertions" based on complete distortion of facts, days after New Delhi said a recent UN report about Pakistan-based terror groups sending thousands of terrorists to Afghanistan is a reiteration of what Prime Minister Imran Khan publicly admitted.

The UN report said that around 6,500 Pakistani nationals were among foreign terrorists operating in Afghanistan and that Pakistan-based terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba are engaged in trafficking fighters into that country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/us-spl-envoy-khalilzad-pak-army-chief-bajwa-discuss-afghan-peace-process-304210">US spl envoy Khalilzad, Pak Army chief Bajwa discuss Afghan peace process</a>

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said on Friday that the international community is well acquainted with the reality that Pakistan is the "nerve centre of terrorism".

On Monday, the Foreign Office said in a statement that even the remarks of Prime Minister Khan were completely twisted by India.

"This mischievous attempt is highly condemnable," it said.

It claimed that the Ministry of External Affairs' comments are in continuation of their campaign to divert international attention from Kashmir.

"Pakistan has been the principal victim of terrorism, including terrorism perpetrated against our people from across the border,"&nbsp;it said.

"It is India that is seeking to distort and misrepresent the report of the UN Security Council's Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team to promote its anti-Pakistan propaganda. We are sure that the world community will not be misled,"&nbsp;the FO claimed.

Pakistan's role as a facilitator to the ongoing peace process in Afghanistan has been widely acknowledged by the relevant international partners, it said.

"We wish to reiterate that all relevant partner countries must guard against such attempts, while supporting the process for an inclusive and comprehensive political settlement in Afghanistan,"&nbsp;it added.

 
&nbsp;

Pakistan's Foreign Office on Monday rejected what it called India's "malicious assertions" based on complete distortion of facts, days after New Delhi said a recent UN report about Pakistan-based terror groups sending thousands of terrorists to Afghanistan is a reiteration of what Prime Minister Imran Khan publicly admitted.

Pakistan's Foreign Office on Monday rejected what it called India's "malicious assertions" based on complete distortion of facts, days after New Delhi said a recent UN report about Pakistan-based terror groups sending thousands of terrorists to Afghanistan is a reiteration of what Prime Minister Imran Khan publicly admitted. The UN report said that around 6,500 Pakistani nationals were among foreign terrorists operating in Afghanistan and that Pakistan-based terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba are engaged in trafficking fighters into that country. Also read | US spl envoy Khalilzad, Pak Army chief Bajwa discuss Afghan peace process External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said on Friday that the international community is well acquainted with the reality that Pakistan is the "nerve centre of terrorism". On Monday, the Foreign Office said in a statement that even the remarks of Prime Minister Khan were completely twisted by India. "This mischievous attempt is highly condemnable," it said. It claimed that the Ministry of External Affairs' comments are in continuation of their campaign to divert international attention from Kashmir. "Pakistan has been the principal victim of terrorism, including terrorism perpetrated against our people from across the border," it said. "It is India that is seeking to distort and misrepresent the report of the UN Security Council's Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team to promote its anti-Pakistan propaganda. We are sure that the world community will not be misled," the FO claimed. Pakistan's role as a facilitator to the ongoing peace process in Afghanistan has been widely acknowledged by the relevant international partners, it said. "We wish to reiterate that all relevant partner countries must guard against such attempts, while supporting the process for an inclusive and comprehensive political settlement in Afghanistan," it added.

Pakistan rejects UN report which claimed its terror groups operating in Afghanistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tens of thousands of people may have been killed in the war on drugs since mid-2016 in the&nbsp;Philippines, amid ''near impunity''&nbsp;for police and incitement to violence by top officials, the United Nations said on Thursday.

The drugs crackdown, launched by President&nbsp;Rodrigo Duterte&nbsp;after winning election on a platform of crushing crime, has been marked by police orders and high-level rhetoric that may have been interpreted as ''permission to kill'', it said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/traffic-jams-long-queues-seen-in-manila-as-one-of-worlds-longest-lockdowns-lifted-302276">Traffic jams, long queues seen in Manila as one of world's longest lockdowns lifted</a>

Police, who do not need search or arrest warrants to conduct house raids, systematically force suspects to make self-incriminating statements or risk lethal force, the UN human rights office said in a report.

There has been only one conviction, for the 2017 murder of Kian delos Santos, a 17-year-old Manila student, it said. Three police officers were convicted after CCTV footage led to public outrage, it said.

''Despite credible allegations of widespread and systematic extrajudicial killings in the context of the campaign against illegal drugs, there has been near impunity for such violations,''&nbsp;the report said.

Police say their actions in the anti-drug campaign have been lawful and that deaths occur in shootouts with dealers resisting arrest.

<img alt="Philippines" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7e7a1b2-48b6-497d-ab15-0ffcf7bf91f9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/5000.jpg" /> 
People protesting against impunity killings in&nbsp;Philippines|Reuters

The report said some statements from the highest levels of government had ''risen to the level of incitement to violence” and “vilification of dissent is being increasingly institutionalised.''

''The human rights situation in the Philippines is marked by an overarching focus on public order and national security, including countering terrorism and illegal drugs,''&nbsp;it said.

But this was ''often at the expense of human rights, due process rights, the rule of law and accountability.''

''The government has also increasingly filed criminal charges, including by using Covid-19 special powers laws, against social media users posting content critical of government policies and actions,''&nbsp;the report added.

It will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council later in June.

Most victims in the drug war are young poor urban males, the UN report said. Their relatives described “numerous obstacles in documenting cases and pursuing justice”.

''The most conservative figure, based on government data, suggests that since July 2016, 8,663 people have been killed, with other estimates of up to triple that number,''&nbsp;it said.

The UN cited reports of widespread drug-related killings perpetrated by unidentified vigilantes and a Philippine government report in 2017 that referred to 16,355 homicide cases under investigation as accomplishments in the drugs war.

A 2016 police circular launching the campaign uses the terms ''negation''&nbsp;and ''neutralisation''&nbsp;of ''drug personalities'', it said.

''Such ill-defined and ominous language, coupled with repeated verbal encouragement by the highest level of state officials to use lethal force, may have emboldened police to treat the circular as permission to kill,''&nbsp;said the UN, calling for the repeal of the campaign.

Government figures show that 223,780 ''drug personalities''&nbsp;were arrested from mid-July 2016 through 2019, but unclear charges and irregularities in due process raise concerns that ''many of these cases may amount to arbitrary detentions.''

At least 248 land and environmental rights activists, lawyers, journalists and trade unionists were killed from 2015 to 2019, the report said. So-called red-tagging, or labelling people and groups as communists or terrorists, has become rife.

Tens of thousands of people may have been killed in the war on drugs since mid-2016 in the Philippines, amid ''near impunity'' for police and incitement to violence by top officials, the United Nations said on Thursday.

Tens of thousands of people may have been killed in the war on drugs since mid-2016 in the Philippines, amid ''near impunity'' for police and incitement to violence by top officials, the United Nations said on Thursday. The drugs crackdown, launched by President Rodrigo Duterte after winning election on a platform of crushing crime, has been marked by police orders and high-level rhetoric that may have been interpreted as ''permission to kill'', it said. Also read: Traffic jams, long queues seen in Manila as one of world's longest lockdowns lifted Police, who do not need search or arrest warrants to conduct house raids, systematically force suspects to make self-incriminating statements or risk lethal force, the UN human rights office said in a report. There has been only one conviction, for the 2017 murder of Kian delos Santos, a 17-year-old Manila student, it said. Three police officers were convicted after CCTV footage led to public outrage, it said. ''Despite credible allegations of widespread and systematic extrajudicial killings in the context of the campaign against illegal drugs, there has been near impunity for such violations,'' the report said. Police say their actions in the anti-drug campaign have been lawful and that deaths occur in shootouts with dealers resisting arrest. People protesting against impunity killings in Philippines|Reuters The report said some statements from the highest levels of government had ''risen to the level of incitement to violence” and “vilification of dissent is being increasingly institutionalised.'' ''The human rights situation in the Philippines is marked by an overarching focus on public order and national security, including countering terrorism and illegal drugs,'' it said. But this was ''often at the expense of human rights, due process rights, the rule of law and accountability.'' ''The government has also increasingly filed criminal charges, including by using Covid-19 special powers laws, against social media users posting content critical of government policies and actions,'' the report added. It will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council later in June. Most victims in the drug war are young poor urban males, the UN report said. Their relatives described “numerous obstacles in documenting cases and pursuing justice”. ''The most conservative figure, based on government data, suggests that since July 2016, 8,663 people have been killed, with other estimates of up to triple that number,'' it said. The UN cited reports of widespread drug-related killings perpetrated by unidentified vigilantes and a Philippine government report in 2017 that referred to 16,355 homicide cases under investigation as accomplishments in the drugs war. A 2016 police circular launching the campaign uses the terms ''negation'' and ''neutralisation'' of ''drug personalities'', it said. ''Such ill-defined and ominous language, coupled with repeated verbal encouragement by the highest level of state officials to use lethal force, may have emboldened police to treat the circular as permission to kill,'' said the UN, calling for the repeal of the campaign. Government figures show that 223,780 ''drug personalities'' were arrested from mid-July 2016 through 2019, but unclear charges and irregularities in due process raise concerns that ''many of these cases may amount to arbitrary detentions.'' At least 248 land and environmental rights activists, lawyers, journalists and trade unionists were killed from 2015 to 2019, the report said. So-called red-tagging, or labelling people and groups as communists or terrorists, has become rife.

'Systematic extrajudicial killings', 'near impunity’ for police part of Philippines’ war on drugs: UN

World food prices fell for a fourth consecutive month in May, hit by the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic which has stymied demand, the United Nations food agency said on Thursday.

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) food priceindex, which measures monthly changes for a basket of cereals, oilseeds, dairy products, meat and sugar, averaged 162.5 points last month, down 1.9% on April.

It was the lowest monthly reading since December 2018.

The dairy index dropped 7.3%, led by sharp falls in both butter and cheese, partly because of lower import demand.

The cereal price index slipped 1% as coarse grain prices continued their decline, with US maize prices some 16% down on the year, and wheat export prices falling, amid expectations of ample global supplies. International rice prices edged higher.

Vegetable oil prices fell 2.8% to a 10-month low, while the meat index slipped 0.8%. Poultry and pig meat quotations continued to fall, reflecting high export availabilities and despite an increase in import demand in East Asia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-one-fifth-homes-are-deprived-of-food-amid-pandemic-296554">Also read |&nbsp;UK: One-fifth homes are 'deprived' of food amid pandemic</a>

Bucking the general downward trend, the sugar price index jumped 7.4% in April largely because of lower-than-expected harvests in some major producers, notably India and Thailand.

FAO also posted its first forecast for the 2020 cereal season, foreseeing global output of 2.780 billion tonnes -- a 2.6% increase on 2019`s record harvest.

The UN&nbsp;agency said maize would account for much of the expected increase, rising a predicted 64.5 million tonnes to 1.207 billion tonnes thanks to anticipated record harvests in the United States, Canada and Ukraine, and near-record harvests in Brazil and Argentina.

Rice production was seen reaching an all-time high of 508.7 million tonnes in 2020, up 1.6% on 2019.

By contrast, global production of wheat in 2020 was forecast to drop, largely on the back of likely falls in the European Union, Ukraine and the United States, which would offset expected increases in Russian and Australia, FAO said. 
&nbsp;

World food prices fell for a fourth consecutive month in May, hit by the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic which has stymied demand, the United Nations food agency said on Thursday.

World food prices fell for a fourth consecutive month in May, hit by the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic which has stymied demand, the United Nations food agency said on Thursday. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) food priceindex, which measures monthly changes for a basket of cereals, oilseeds, dairy products, meat and sugar, averaged 162.5 points last month, down 1.9% on April. It was the lowest monthly reading since December 2018. The dairy index dropped 7.3%, led by sharp falls in both butter and cheese, partly because of lower import demand. The cereal price index slipped 1% as coarse grain prices continued their decline, with US maize prices some 16% down on the year, and wheat export prices falling, amid expectations of ample global supplies. International rice prices edged higher. Vegetable oil prices fell 2.8% to a 10-month low, while the meat index slipped 0.8%. Poultry and pig meat quotations continued to fall, reflecting high export availabilities and despite an increase in import demand in East Asia. Also read | UK: One-fifth homes are 'deprived' of food amid pandemic Bucking the general downward trend, the sugar price index jumped 7.4% in April largely because of lower-than-expected harvests in some major producers, notably India and Thailand. FAO also posted its first forecast for the 2020 cereal season, foreseeing global output of 2.780 billion tonnes -- a 2.6% increase on 2019`s record harvest. The UN agency said maize would account for much of the expected increase, rising a predicted 64.5 million tonnes to 1.207 billion tonnes thanks to anticipated record harvests in the United States, Canada and Ukraine, and near-record harvests in Brazil and Argentina. Rice production was seen reaching an all-time high of 508.7 million tonnes in 2020, up 1.6% on 2019. By contrast, global production of wheat in 2020 was forecast to drop, largely on the back of likely falls in the European Union, Ukraine and the United States, which would offset expected increases in Russian and Australia, FAO said.

World food price index hits 17-month low in May: UN

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

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

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

French court orders Rwanda genocide suspect be tried at UN tribunal

United Nations’ programmes have been very helpful in providing assistance, especially in terms of health and food supplies in the war-torn Yemen. However, starting now, almost 75 per cent of UN services are ending or halting their operations in the country.

As part of this, Yemen will receive lesser food supplies from the body’s various programmes. Additionally, health services will be impact in 189 out of the 369 hospitals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/covid-19-is-a-threat-to-warn-torn-yemen-un-refugee-agency-299595" hreflang="en">COVID-19 is a threat to warn-torn Yemen: UN Refugee Agency</a>

Yemen has been seen witnessing fund cuts due to the war-like conditions in the country.&nbsp; Currently, the capital of the country Sanna is under the control of Houthi rebels, who receive support from Iran as opposed to the Saudi-UAE coalition.

Earlier, the biggest donor to Yemen, United States cut its funding to the country, attributing it to the Houthis.

Yemen is the economically poorest Arab country and has been witnessing war since 2014 since Houthis gained control of the capital city and overthrew the president Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi.

<h6><img alt="j" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e06f256e-2e05-41a6-902c-f0dd70e3e2b0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_10.jpg" /> 
Smoke billows amid clashes between fighters loyal to Yemen's separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) and Saudi-backed government forces for control of Zinjibar, the capital of the southern Abyan province, in the Sheikh Salim area on May 23, 2020 | AFP</h6>

&nbsp;

The war, with Iran and Saudi Arabia as the two major playing has killed over 100,000 people, triggering shortages of important food and medical supplies.

The United Nations has referred to the crisis as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/who-suspends-staff-activity-in-yemens-houthi-held-areas-297843" hreflang="en">WHO suspends staff activity in Yemen's Houthi-held areas</a>

Last year, the UN received international donations worth $3.6 billion. However, it fell short of its $4.2 billion goal. In terms of its goals this year, the organisation has received only 15 per cent of the envisioned $3.5 billion.

The country is country dealing with the coronavirus crisis. Many reports have claim that the virus is spreading through the country, which could have grave consequences considering the socio-economic status of the country, alongside a very poor healthcare system. Coronavirus spreads quickly through contact with the infected, and has killed over 100,000 in the United States alone. In a war-torn situation, it could prove to be much fatal.

United Nations’ programmes have been very helpful in providing assistance, especially in terms of health and food supplies in the war-torn Yemen. However, starting now, almost 75 per cent of UN services are ending or halting their operations in the country.

United Nations’ programmes have been very helpful in providing assistance, especially in terms of health and food supplies in the war-torn Yemen. However, starting now, almost 75 per cent of UN services are ending or halting their operations in the country. As part of this, Yemen will receive lesser food supplies from the body’s various programmes. Additionally, health services will be impact in 189 out of the 369 hospitals. Also read: COVID-19 is a threat to warn-torn Yemen: UN Refugee Agency Yemen has been seen witnessing fund cuts due to the war-like conditions in the country. Currently, the capital of the country Sanna is under the control of Houthi rebels, who receive support from Iran as opposed to the Saudi-UAE coalition. Earlier, the biggest donor to Yemen, United States cut its funding to the country, attributing it to the Houthis. Yemen is the economically poorest Arab country and has been witnessing war since 2014 since Houthis gained control of the capital city and overthrew the president Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi. Smoke billows amid clashes between fighters loyal to Yemen's separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) and Saudi-backed government forces for control of Zinjibar, the capital of the southern Abyan province, in the Sheikh Salim area on May 23, 2020 | AFP The war, with Iran and Saudi Arabia as the two major playing has killed over 100,000 people, triggering shortages of important food and medical supplies. The United Nations has referred to the crisis as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. Also read: WHO suspends staff activity in Yemen's Houthi-held areas Last year, the UN received international donations worth $3.6 billion. However, it fell short of its $4.2 billion goal. In terms of its goals this year, the organisation has received only 15 per cent of the envisioned $3.5 billion. The country is country dealing with the coronavirus crisis. Many reports have claim that the virus is spreading through the country, which could have grave consequences considering the socio-economic status of the country, alongside a very poor healthcare system. Coronavirus spreads quickly through contact with the infected, and has killed over 100,000 in the United States alone. In a war-torn situation, it could prove to be much fatal.

United Nations cuts assistance to Yemen, over 75% services affected

Two peacekeepers of the United Nations in Mali have died from the coronavirus, officials said Friday.

Out of the some 100,000 UN troops deployed on about 15 different missions around the world, these two are the first whose deaths were directly linked to the pandemic.

"Unfortunately, I also want to say that yesterday and today two of our military colleagues have passed away due to COVID-19," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, during a meeting at the UN headquarters in New York to honor the peacekeepers killed in conflict.

One was from Cambodia and the other from El Salvador, "both members of MINUSMA," the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali, Guterres said.

The next-worst affected missions are in Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), with 21 cases of infection and three recovered, and in Central African Republic, with 17 cases of infection and two recovered.

Other cases have been reported among peacekeepers in South Sudan, Libya, Israel and Darfur, the UN said.

In 2019, 83 soldiers, police officers and civilians in 39 different countries were killed during peacekeeping missions.

Including soldiers, police officers, civilians and all affiliated personnel, as of Friday there were a total of 137 cases of the coronavirus throughout the peacekeeping missions, with 53 recovered and the two dead, the UN said.

MINUSMA is the hardest-hit mission, with 90 cases of infection, 43 recovered and the two deaths.

Two peacekeepers of the United Nations in Mali have died from the coronavirus, officials said Friday. Out of the some 100,000 UN troops deployed on about 15 different missions around the world, these two are the first whose deaths were directly linked to the pandemic.

Two peacekeepers of the United Nations in Mali have died from the coronavirus, officials said Friday. Out of the some 100,000 UN troops deployed on about 15 different missions around the world, these two are the first whose deaths were directly linked to the pandemic. "Unfortunately, I also want to say that yesterday and today two of our military colleagues have passed away due to COVID-19," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, during a meeting at the UN headquarters in New York to honor the peacekeepers killed in conflict. One was from Cambodia and the other from El Salvador, "both members of MINUSMA," the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali, Guterres said. The next-worst affected missions are in Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), with 21 cases of infection and three recovered, and in Central African Republic, with 17 cases of infection and two recovered. Other cases have been reported among peacekeepers in South Sudan, Libya, Israel and Darfur, the UN said. In 2019, 83 soldiers, police officers and civilians in 39 different countries were killed during peacekeeping missions. Including soldiers, police officers, civilians and all affiliated personnel, as of Friday there were a total of 137 cases of the coronavirus throughout the peacekeeping missions, with 53 recovered and the two dead, the UN said. MINUSMA is the hardest-hit mission, with 90 cases of infection, 43 recovered and the two deaths.

First two UN peacekeepers die after contracting coronavirus

An effective track-and-trace system will&nbsp;prevent second peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, save&nbsp;lives, and can&nbsp;reduce the number of working hours lost to illness by as much as 50 per cent, according to a major global study.

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) said the effective testing and tracing of infections was essential if employers wanted staff to return to work and for them to stay healthy.

The Geneva-based, United Nations body estimates that working hour losses can be reduced from about 14 per cent&nbsp;in countries that put in place weak track-and-trace systems down to 7 per cent&nbsp;in countries with the ''highest intensity of tracking and tracing.''

England's National Health Service&nbsp;had&nbsp;introduced a test and trace service on Tuesday,&nbsp;with 25,000 contact tracing staff&nbsp;and the capacity to trace the 10,000 contacts per day.

According to ILO's COVID-19 monitor ''testing and tracing can itself create new jobs, even if temporary, which can be targeted towards youth and other priority groups.''

A track and test and trace system reduces reliance on strict confinement measures; promotes the public confidence and so encourages consumption and supports employment; and helps minimise operational disruption at the workplace

The&nbsp;International Labour Organisation&nbsp;said an effective system was needed or employers and workers would miss out on much of the benefit of returning to work.

If workers remained wary about the health threats of returning to work, it would leave many vulnerable people excluded and exposed to the threat of redundancy.

''Creating an employment-rich recovery that also promotes equity and sustainability means getting people and enterprises working again as soon as possible, in safe conditions,''&nbsp;said the ILO’s director general, Guy Ryder.

''Testing and tracing can be an important part of the policy package if we are to fight fear, reduce risk and get our economies and societies moving again quickly.''

An effective track-and-trace system will prevent second peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, save lives, and can reduce the number of working hours lost to illness by as much as 50 per cent, according to a major global study.

An effective track-and-trace system will prevent second peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, save lives, and can reduce the number of working hours lost to illness by as much as 50 per cent, according to a major global study. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) said the effective testing and tracing of infections was essential if employers wanted staff to return to work and for them to stay healthy. The Geneva-based, United Nations body estimates that working hour losses can be reduced from about 14 per cent in countries that put in place weak track-and-trace systems down to 7 per cent in countries with the ''highest intensity of tracking and tracing.'' England's National Health Service had introduced a test and trace service on Tuesday, with 25,000 contact tracing staff and the capacity to trace the 10,000 contacts per day. According to ILO's COVID-19 monitor ''testing and tracing can itself create new jobs, even if temporary, which can be targeted towards youth and other priority groups.'' A track and test and trace system reduces reliance on strict confinement measures; promotes the public confidence and so encourages consumption and supports employment; and helps minimise operational disruption at the workplace The International Labour Organisation said an effective system was needed or employers and workers would miss out on much of the benefit of returning to work. If workers remained wary about the health threats of returning to work, it would leave many vulnerable people excluded and exposed to the threat of redundancy. ''Creating an employment-rich recovery that also promotes equity and sustainability means getting people and enterprises working again as soon as possible, in safe conditions,'' said the ILO’s director general, Guy Ryder. ''Testing and tracing can be an important part of the policy package if we are to fight fear, reduce risk and get our economies and societies moving again quickly.''

Effective track-and-trace system to prevent second COVID-19 wave: UN

The United States and China clashed over Hong Kong at the United Nations on Wednesday as Beijing opposed a request by Washington for the Security Council to meet over the former's plan to impose new national security legislation on the territory.

China has adopted the plan of imposing a new national security law on Hong Kong in the aftermath of last year's violent unrest that plunged the city into its deepest turmoil since returning to Chinese rule in 1997.

The country’s legislature on Thursday nearly unanimously approved the plan to tackle secession, subversion, terrorism, foreign interference and any act that might threaten national security in the semi-autonomous city.

The new law is expected to take effect by September.

The move is being seen as a turning point, as it would allow China to garner greater control and a sense of security over Hong Kong.

To this end, the US mission to the United Nations said in a statement that the issue was "a matter of urgent global concern that implicates international peace and security" and therefore warranted the immediate attention of the 15-member council.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-proposed-security-law-for-hong-kong-could-lead-to-us-sanctions-says-white-house-300793">Also read | China's proposed security law for Hong Kong could lead to US sanctions, says White House</a>

China's UN Ambassador Zhang Jun, to this end, posted on Twitter that Beijing "categorically rejects the baseless request" because the national security legislation for Hong Kong was an internal matter and "has nothing to do with the mandate of the Security Council."

The US request came in the wake of the rising tensions between Washington and Beijing over the coronavirus pandemic. Washington has questioned China's transparency about the outbreak, which first emerged in Wuhan, China late last year.&nbsp;

China has said it was transparent about the virus.

The US said China's opposition to a Security Council meeting on Hong Kong coupled with its "gross cover-up and mismanagement of the coronavirus crisis, its constant violations of its international human rights commitments, and its unlawful behaviour in the South China Sea, should make obvious to all that Beijing is not behaving as a responsible UN member state."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-parliament-adopts-plan-to-impose-security-law-on-hong-kong-301503">Also read | China parliament adopts plan to impose security law on Hong Kong</a>

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Congress on Wednesday that Hong Kong no longer qualifies for its special status under US law because China had undermined its autonomy, potentially dealing a crushing blow to the territory's status as a major financial hub.

The United States and China clashed over Hong Kong at the United Nations on Wednesday as Beijing opposed a request by Washington for the Security Council to meet over the former's plan to impose new national security legislation on the territory.

The United States and China clashed over Hong Kong at the United Nations on Wednesday as Beijing opposed a request by Washington for the Security Council to meet over the former's plan to impose new national security legislation on the territory. China has adopted the plan of imposing a new national security law on Hong Kong in the aftermath of last year's violent unrest that plunged the city into its deepest turmoil since returning to Chinese rule in 1997. The country’s legislature on Thursday nearly unanimously approved the plan to tackle secession, subversion, terrorism, foreign interference and any act that might threaten national security in the semi-autonomous city. The new law is expected to take effect by September. The move is being seen as a turning point, as it would allow China to garner greater control and a sense of security over Hong Kong. To this end, the US mission to the United Nations said in a statement that the issue was "a matter of urgent global concern that implicates international peace and security" and therefore warranted the immediate attention of the 15-member council. Also read | China's proposed security law for Hong Kong could lead to US sanctions, says White House China's UN Ambassador Zhang Jun, to this end, posted on Twitter that Beijing "categorically rejects the baseless request" because the national security legislation for Hong Kong was an internal matter and "has nothing to do with the mandate of the Security Council." The US request came in the wake of the rising tensions between Washington and Beijing over the coronavirus pandemic. Washington has questioned China's transparency about the outbreak, which first emerged in Wuhan, China late last year. China has said it was transparent about the virus. The US said China's opposition to a Security Council meeting on Hong Kong coupled with its "gross cover-up and mismanagement of the coronavirus crisis, its constant violations of its international human rights commitments, and its unlawful behaviour in the South China Sea, should make obvious to all that Beijing is not behaving as a responsible UN member state." Also read | China parliament adopts plan to impose security law on Hong Kong US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Congress on Wednesday that Hong Kong no longer qualifies for its special status under US law because China had undermined its autonomy, potentially dealing a crushing blow to the territory's status as a major financial hub.

US and China take their fight over Hong Kong to United Nations

The UN's weather agency warned Tuesday that COVID-19 would amplify the risks of what was expected to be a record-breaking hot summer in the northern hemisphere.

The World Meteorological Organization urged governments to make plans to keep people safe during heatwaves without spreading the novel coronavirus.

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This year is expected to be "another record-breaking heat season in the northern hemisphere", WMO spokeswoman Clare Nullis Kapp told a virtual briefing in Geneva.

"We're currently experiencing one of the hottest years on record.

"COVID-19 amplifies the health risks of hot weather for many people, and it complicates the task of managing it."

The United Nations agency teamed up Tuesday with non-governmental organisations to call for stronger preparations to keep people safe in hot weather while keeping a lid on the pandemic.

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The information series, which covers topics such as ventilation, vulnerable populations and personal protection equipment, is being issued "to alert decision-makers to try to help them manage the duel challenge of heat and COVID," said Nullis Kapp.

India is currently experiencing a widespread heatwave, with temperatures reaching 47.5 degrees Celsius&nbsp;in the city of Churu in the northwestern Rajasthan state.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heatwave-imd-issues-red-alert-for-several-parts-of-north-india-300746">Heatwave: IMD issues 'red alert' for several parts of North India</a>

"India is experiencing a heatwave, and this is at the same time as India is relaxing the lockdown measures," said Nullis Kapp.

"Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and more intense because of climate change. This is putting an increasing stress on human health and human health systems," she added.

The UN's weather agency warned Tuesday that COVID-19 would amplify the risks of what was expected to be a record-breaking hot summer in the northern hemisphere. The World Meteorological Organization urged governments to make plans to keep people safe during heatwaves without spreading the novel coronavirus.

The UN's weather agency warned Tuesday that COVID-19 would amplify the risks of what was expected to be a record-breaking hot summer in the northern hemisphere. The World Meteorological Organization urged governments to make plans to keep people safe during heatwaves without spreading the novel coronavirus. This year is expected to be "another record-breaking heat season in the northern hemisphere", WMO spokeswoman Clare Nullis Kapp told a virtual briefing in Geneva. "We're currently experiencing one of the hottest years on record. "COVID-19 amplifies the health risks of hot weather for many people, and it complicates the task of managing it." The United Nations agency teamed up Tuesday with non-governmental organisations to call for stronger preparations to keep people safe in hot weather while keeping a lid on the pandemic. The information series, which covers topics such as ventilation, vulnerable populations and personal protection equipment, is being issued "to alert decision-makers to try to help them manage the duel challenge of heat and COVID," said Nullis Kapp. India is currently experiencing a widespread heatwave, with temperatures reaching 47.5 degrees Celsius in the city of Churu in the northwestern Rajasthan state. Also read: Heatwave: IMD issues 'red alert' for several parts of North India "India is experiencing a heatwave, and this is at the same time as India is relaxing the lockdown measures," said Nullis Kapp. "Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and more intense because of climate change. This is putting an increasing stress on human health and human health systems," she added.

Coronavirus pandemic heightening heatwave health risks: UN

The coronavirus pandemic&nbsp;has starkly exposed inequalities worldwide and could set back human development for the first time since 1990, the United Nations said on Wednesday.

It said the crisis had, though, revealed the strength of collective action in the face of a common threat and urged the world to show the same force on climate change.

''The Covid-19 pandemic is unleashing a human development crisis,''&nbsp;the UN Development Programme (UNDP) said in a report.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-covid-19-vaccine-produces-antibodies-in-mice-guinea-pigs-300037">US: COVID-19 vaccine produces antibodies in mice, guinea pigs</a>

Other shocks such as the financial crisis of 2007-2009 or the Ebola outbreak in West Africa in 2014-2016 have dealt a blow but did not prevent year-on-year development gains overall, said UNDP head Achim Steiner.

''Covid-19, with its triple hit to health, education, and income, may change this trend,''&nbsp;he added.

Besides deaths from Covid-19, which have now topped 320,000, the crisis could indirectly mean an extra 6,000 children die each day from preventable causes in the next six months, UNDP said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasa-finds-evidence-of-parallel-universe-where-time-runs-backward-299949" hreflang="en">NASA finds evidence of parallel universe where time runs backward</a>

Six out of 10 children globally are not getting an education due to school closures, and with deep recessions hitting most economies, the decline in UNDP's human development index would be equivalent to erasing all the progress of the past six years.

The decline is affecting rich and poor nations, but is expected to be far steeper in developing countries that are less able to cope with the pandemic’s social and economic fallout.

''If we fail to bring equity into the policy toolkit, many will fall further behind,''&nbsp;said Pedro Conceição, director of the UNDP office that produces its annual Human Development Report.

''This is particularly important for the 'new necessities'&nbsp;of the 21st century, such as access to the internet, which is helping us to benefit from tele-education, telemedicine, and to work from home,''&nbsp;he added in a statement.

UNDP estimated that 86 per cent of children in primary education are effectively out of school in countries with low development, because they lack the tools for web-based learning, compared with just 20 per cent in the wealthiest nations.

Expanding access to the internet in low- and middle-income countries would cost US$100 billion, about 15 per cent of the income they will lose this year and 1 per cent of the fiscal stimulus the world has committed in response to Covid-19, the report said.

The coronavirus pandemic has starkly exposed inequalities worldwide and could set back human development for the first time since 1990, the United Nations said on Wednesday.

The coronavirus pandemic has starkly exposed inequalities worldwide and could set back human development for the first time since 1990, the United Nations said on Wednesday. It said the crisis had, though, revealed the strength of collective action in the face of a common threat and urged the world to show the same force on climate change. ''The Covid-19 pandemic is unleashing a human development crisis,'' the UN Development Programme (UNDP) said in a report. Also read: US: COVID-19 vaccine produces antibodies in mice, guinea pigs Other shocks such as the financial crisis of 2007-2009 or the Ebola outbreak in West Africa in 2014-2016 have dealt a blow but did not prevent year-on-year development gains overall, said UNDP head Achim Steiner. ''Covid-19, with its triple hit to health, education, and income, may change this trend,'' he added. Besides deaths from Covid-19, which have now topped 320,000, the crisis could indirectly mean an extra 6,000 children die each day from preventable causes in the next six months, UNDP said. Also read: NASA finds evidence of parallel universe where time runs backward Six out of 10 children globally are not getting an education due to school closures, and with deep recessions hitting most economies, the decline in UNDP's human development index would be equivalent to erasing all the progress of the past six years. The decline is affecting rich and poor nations, but is expected to be far steeper in developing countries that are less able to cope with the pandemic’s social and economic fallout. ''If we fail to bring equity into the policy toolkit, many will fall further behind,'' said Pedro Conceição, director of the UNDP office that produces its annual Human Development Report. ''This is particularly important for the 'new necessities' of the 21st century, such as access to the internet, which is helping us to benefit from tele-education, telemedicine, and to work from home,'' he added in a statement. UNDP estimated that 86 per cent of children in primary education are effectively out of school in countries with low development, because they lack the tools for web-based learning, compared with just 20 per cent in the wealthiest nations. Expanding access to the internet in low- and middle-income countries would cost US$100 billion, about 15 per cent of the income they will lose this year and 1 per cent of the fiscal stimulus the world has committed in response to Covid-19, the report said.

Coronavirus pandemic may reverse human development for first time in three decades: UN

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said Wednesday that the developed world could learn lessons from the preventative measures taken by many African countries to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

"COVID-19 has made much slower progress (in Africa) than the predictions that were made at the beginning" of the crisis, Guterres said in an interview with RFL radio in France.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-will-push-60-million-into-extreme-poverty-world-bank-299794" hreflang="en">Coronavirus pandemic will push 60 million into 'extreme poverty': World Bank</a>

This has been largely thanks to the fact that "most African governments and organisations took in time very brave prevention measures which provide a lesson for some developed nations that did not," he added.

There have been fewer than 3,000 COVID-19 deaths from 88,000 cases of the disease registered throughout the African continent, relatively low numbers compared to over 320,000 deaths worldwide.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-us-criticism-who-adopts-resolution-to-launch-independent-probe-into-coronavirus-299764" hreflang="en">Amid US criticism, WHO adopts resolution to launch independent probe into coronavirus</a>

Guterres also called for a more regularised easing of debt repayments for the poorest countries.

Last month, G20 and Paris Club creditor nations agreed to waive most debt payments for the world's poorest countries in 2020 as a result of the coronavirus crisis, but Guterres called this move "insufficient".

"We need to prepare targeted debt relief and a more comprehensive, more structural approach to avoid at all costs in the future a series of bankruptcies that could lead to&nbsp;a depression" on the global level, he said.

A total of 41 African nations are involved and on Tuesday Mali became the first to secure a moratorium in debt payments from the Paris Club of creditor nations, a French finance ministry source said Tuesday.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said Wednesday that the developed world could learn lessons from the preventative measures taken by many African countries to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said Wednesday that the developed world could learn lessons from the preventative measures taken by many African countries to stem the spread of the coronavirus. "COVID-19 has made much slower progress (in Africa) than the predictions that were made at the beginning" of the crisis, Guterres said in an interview with RFL radio in France. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic will push 60 million into 'extreme poverty': World Bank This has been largely thanks to the fact that "most African governments and organisations took in time very brave prevention measures which provide a lesson for some developed nations that did not," he added. There have been fewer than 3,000 COVID-19 deaths from 88,000 cases of the disease registered throughout the African continent, relatively low numbers compared to over 320,000 deaths worldwide. Also read: Amid US criticism, WHO adopts resolution to launch independent probe into coronavirus Guterres also called for a more regularised easing of debt repayments for the poorest countries. Last month, G20 and Paris Club creditor nations agreed to waive most debt payments for the world's poorest countries in 2020 as a result of the coronavirus crisis, but Guterres called this move "insufficient". "We need to prepare targeted debt relief and a more comprehensive, more structural approach to avoid at all costs in the future a series of bankruptcies that could lead to a depression" on the global level, he said. A total of 41 African nations are involved and on Tuesday Mali became the first to secure a moratorium in debt payments from the Paris Club of creditor nations, a French finance ministry source said Tuesday.

Developed countries can learn from Africa's measures to curb COVID-19: Guterres

Myanmar&nbsp;has made south-east Asia’s largest-ever seizure of synthetic drugs in raids that revealed ''unprecedented'' production of opioids in the area, the UN has said.

The seizures announced Monday were conducted during a three-month operation that centered around Lwe Kham village in Kutkhai Township in Myanmar's northeast Shan state. Thirty-three suspects were arrested.

Jeremy Douglas, the regional coordinator for the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC), said&nbsp;"what has been unearthed through this operation is truly off-the-charts."

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</ul>

Police seized nearly 200 million&nbsp;methamphetamine tablets, more than 500 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine,&nbsp;and 35.5 metric tons and 163,000 thousand liters of precursor chemicals used to manufacture illicit drugs,&nbsp;Myanmar authorities and the UNODC said in a joint statement.

They also seized nearly 3,750 liters (990 gallons) of liquid methylfentanyl, which is used to make a powerful synthetic opioid like fentanyl.&nbsp;

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) described the haul as one of the largest and most successful counter-narcotics operations in the history of the region.

<img alt="Myanmar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5aa1c4ed-e630-47d0-bb18-c9998a7ead6d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/4032.jpg" /> 
Some of the high pressure chemical reactors, and mixers used for manufacturing illicit drugs seized by Myanmar police

The production network could have been possible only with the backing of serious transnational criminal groups, he added.

The raids unearthed “unprecedented” methyl fentanyl, the sign of a new trend of synthetic opioid production emerging “on a scale nobody anticipated”, said Douglas.

Fifty times stronger than heroin and up to 100 times more potent than morphine, fentanyl can be lethal from as little as two milligrams, the equivalent of a few grains of sand.

It has fuelled an opioid crisis in the US that killed 32,000 people in 2018.

<img alt="Myanmar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eb444ecf-9936-4ca4-b006-8e5187d531c6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1271.jpg" /> 
Weapons, ammunition and bags of crystal methamphetamine and meth-laced yaba pills seized by Myanmar police

Myanmar is under pressure to stem the deluge of drugs from its border regions. Shan state is part of the ''Golden Triangle'', a wedge of land cutting into Myanmar, Laos, China and Thailand and virtually untroubled by authorities despite the multi-billion dollar trade.

Myanmar is the world’s second-biggest producer of heroin after Afghanistan, and is now widely thought to be the largest global source of meth, fuelled by the flood of precursor chemicals from China.

Myanmar has made south-east Asia’s largest-ever seizure of synthetic drugs in raids that revealed ''unprecedented'' production of opioids in the area, the UN has said.

Myanmar has made south-east Asia’s largest-ever seizure of synthetic drugs in raids that revealed ''unprecedented'' production of opioids in the area, the UN has said. The seizures announced Monday were conducted during a three-month operation that centered around Lwe Kham village in Kutkhai Township in Myanmar's northeast Shan state. Thirty-three suspects were arrested. Jeremy Douglas, the regional coordinator for the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC), said "what has been unearthed through this operation is truly off-the-charts." Police seized nearly 200 million methamphetamine tablets, more than 500 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, and 35.5 metric tons and 163,000 thousand liters of precursor chemicals used to manufacture illicit drugs, Myanmar authorities and the UNODC said in a joint statement. They also seized nearly 3,750 liters (990 gallons) of liquid methylfentanyl, which is used to make a powerful synthetic opioid like fentanyl. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) described the haul as one of the largest and most successful counter-narcotics operations in the history of the region. Some of the high pressure chemical reactors, and mixers used for manufacturing illicit drugs seized by Myanmar police The production network could have been possible only with the backing of serious transnational criminal groups, he added. The raids unearthed “unprecedented” methyl fentanyl, the sign of a new trend of synthetic opioid production emerging “on a scale nobody anticipated”, said Douglas. Fifty times stronger than heroin and up to 100 times more potent than morphine, fentanyl can be lethal from as little as two milligrams, the equivalent of a few grains of sand. It has fuelled an opioid crisis in the US that killed 32,000 people in 2018. Weapons, ammunition and bags of crystal methamphetamine and meth-laced yaba pills seized by Myanmar police Myanmar is under pressure to stem the deluge of drugs from its border regions. Shan state is part of the ''Golden Triangle'', a wedge of land cutting into Myanmar, Laos, China and Thailand and virtually untroubled by authorities despite the multi-billion dollar trade. Myanmar is the world’s second-biggest producer of heroin after Afghanistan, and is now widely thought to be the largest global source of meth, fuelled by the flood of precursor chemicals from China.

Myanmar police find the largest haul of synthetic drugs in South East Asia, seizing 200 million meth tablets

The United Nations called Tuesday for an immediate reduction of violence in Afghanistan, saying civilian deaths by both Taliban and Afghanistan's own security forces is on the increase.

In a statement, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, or UNAMA, also expressed concern about the stepped-up attacks and brutality of assaults claimed by the Islamic State group.

A horrific attack last week at a maternity hospital in the capital has not been claimed by any group, but the United States said it bears all the hallmarks of Afghanistan's IS affiliate&nbsp;targeting the country's minority Shiites in a neighborhood of Kabul they have repeatedly attacked in the past.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/seven-killed-in-a-car-bomb-attack-on-spy-agency-in-afghanistan-299392" hreflang="en">Seven killed in a car bomb attack on spy agency in Afghanistan</a>

The Taliban denied involvement in the maternity hospital attack, which killed 24 people, including two infants and several new mothers, calling it vile.

The U.N. Report blamed the Taliban for killing 208 civilians in April, while 172 civilians were killed in the month by the Afghan National Security and Defense Force.

Parties have committed to finding a peaceful solution and should protect the lives of all Afghans and not jeopardize people's hope for an end to the war,&nbsp;said Deborah Lyons, the UNAMA head and the U.N. Secretary- General's Special Representative to Afghanistan. ''Intra-Afghan peace negotiations need to start as soon as possible,''&nbsp;she said.

The UN's call for an end to violence comes as Washington's special peace envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad, began another round of talks with the Taliban to press them to start talking to the newly reconciled Afghan political leadership in Kabul and implement an immediate reduction in violence, said a US&nbsp;State department statement.

Khalilzad, who is the architect of a US-Taliban peace deal signed in February, has been trying to salvage the agreement and jump-start intra-Afghan negotiations between the Taliban and Afghanistan's political leadership.

A power-sharing agreement on Sunday between President Ashraf Ghani and his rival Abdullah Abdullaah brought to an end months of wrangling over who won a deeply controversial presidential election last year.

The agreement raised expectations that the next, critical round of the US-Taliban peace deal, which calls for negotiations between the Taliban and Afghanistan's political leaders, can begin.

The Taliban have said a permanent cease-fire would be one of the first items on the agenda but have been critical of repeated delays in the deals promised prisoner release, which is to be completed before talks can begin.

In Doha, Ambassador Khalilzad will meet with Taliban representatives to discuss implementation of the US-Taliban agreement and press for steps necessary to commence intra-Afghan negotiations, including a significant reduction of violence,&nbsp;said the US&nbsp;State Department statement.

Khalilzad will also visit the Afghan capital, his first visit to Kabul since Secretary of State Mike Pompeo failed to get the squabbling leaders to reach an agreement during a surprise visit in March. A frustrated Pompeo cut $1 billion in US&nbsp;Aid to Afghanistan.

Following the agreement Sunday, Pompeo called Ghani and bemoaned the time lost to their bickering.

The United States remains committed to supporting the desire of the Afghan people and the international community for a political settlement that ends the 40-year conflict and ensures Afghanistan never again serves as a platform for international terrorism,? the State Department statement said.

The agreement provides for the withdrawal of US&nbsp;And NATO troops, but only if the Taliban live up to their end to battle terrorist groups, like the Islamic State affiliate against whom they have waged bitter battles.

The increasingly brutal attacks by the IS would seem to have given urgency to the US. Efforts to get the Taliban into a coordinated battle against IS.

The United Nations called Tuesday for an immediate reduction of violence in Afghanistan, saying civilian deaths by both Taliban and Afghanistan's own security forces is on the increase.

The United Nations called Tuesday for an immediate reduction of violence in Afghanistan, saying civilian deaths by both Taliban and Afghanistan's own security forces is on the increase. In a statement, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, or UNAMA, also expressed concern about the stepped-up attacks and brutality of assaults claimed by the Islamic State group. A horrific attack last week at a maternity hospital in the capital has not been claimed by any group, but the United States said it bears all the hallmarks of Afghanistan's IS affiliate targeting the country's minority Shiites in a neighborhood of Kabul they have repeatedly attacked in the past. Also read: Seven killed in a car bomb attack on spy agency in Afghanistan The Taliban denied involvement in the maternity hospital attack, which killed 24 people, including two infants and several new mothers, calling it vile. The U.N. Report blamed the Taliban for killing 208 civilians in April, while 172 civilians were killed in the month by the Afghan National Security and Defense Force. Parties have committed to finding a peaceful solution and should protect the lives of all Afghans and not jeopardize people's hope for an end to the war, said Deborah Lyons, the UNAMA head and the U.N. Secretary- General's Special Representative to Afghanistan. ''Intra-Afghan peace negotiations need to start as soon as possible,'' she said. The UN's call for an end to violence comes as Washington's special peace envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad, began another round of talks with the Taliban to press them to start talking to the newly reconciled Afghan political leadership in Kabul and implement an immediate reduction in violence, said a US State department statement. Khalilzad, who is the architect of a US-Taliban peace deal signed in February, has been trying to salvage the agreement and jump-start intra-Afghan negotiations between the Taliban and Afghanistan's political leadership. A power-sharing agreement on Sunday between President Ashraf Ghani and his rival Abdullah Abdullaah brought to an end months of wrangling over who won a deeply controversial presidential election last year. The agreement raised expectations that the next, critical round of the US-Taliban peace deal, which calls for negotiations between the Taliban and Afghanistan's political leaders, can begin. The Taliban have said a permanent cease-fire would be one of the first items on the agenda but have been critical of repeated delays in the deals promised prisoner release, which is to be completed before talks can begin. In Doha, Ambassador Khalilzad will meet with Taliban representatives to discuss implementation of the US-Taliban agreement and press for steps necessary to commence intra-Afghan negotiations, including a significant reduction of violence, said the US State Department statement. Khalilzad will also visit the Afghan capital, his first visit to Kabul since Secretary of State Mike Pompeo failed to get the squabbling leaders to reach an agreement during a surprise visit in March. A frustrated Pompeo cut $1 billion in US Aid to Afghanistan. Following the agreement Sunday, Pompeo called Ghani and bemoaned the time lost to their bickering. The United States remains committed to supporting the desire of the Afghan people and the international community for a political settlement that ends the 40-year conflict and ensures Afghanistan never again serves as a platform for international terrorism,? the State Department statement said. The agreement provides for the withdrawal of US And NATO troops, but only if the Taliban live up to their end to battle terrorist groups, like the Islamic State affiliate against whom they have waged bitter battles. The increasingly brutal attacks by the IS would seem to have given urgency to the US. Efforts to get the Taliban into a coordinated battle against IS.

Rise in civilian deaths by Taliban and Afghan forces, says UN

India has given USD 2 million in aid to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency working for the welfare of Palestinian refugees in support of its core programmes and services, including education and health, amidst the coronavirus crisis.

India had increased its annual contribution to the UNRWA from USD 1.25 million in 2016 to USD 5 million in 2019. It pledged another USD 5 million for 2020 which opens its way to become a member of the agency's advisory commission, according to official sources.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) applauded India's financial support to keep its basic services operating, especially under the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The contribution was presented to the UN agency by the Representative of India (ROI) to the State of Palestine, Sunil Kumar.

"On behalf of the agency, I would like to express my deep appreciation to the Government of India for advancing part of its contribution, which will help UNRWA address cash flow challenges," Marc Lassouaoui, chief of the Donor Relations at the agency said.

"The continued determination and commitment of India in support of the Palestine refugees is commendable, in particular under the current circumstances brought on us by COVID-19," he said.

"On behalf of the Government of India, I would like to express my appreciation for the commendable work and endeavours carried out by the UNRWA. We believe that our contribution will support the agency's activities in providing the needed assistance to Palestinian refugees, and assist in achieving their full human development potential," Mr Kumar said.

India's contribution will support the agency's "dire" financial situation due to the funding gaps that risk its core services to the Palestinian refugees in the fields of education and health.

About 3.1 million Palestine refugees depend on health services provided by the UNRWA. At the same time, the agency's schools educate 526,000 students every year, of which half are female.

The agency was created in December 1949 by the UN to support the relief and human development of Palestinian refugees.

The UNRWA definition of "refugee" covers Palestinians who fled or were expelled from their homes during the 1948 War.

Meanwhile, India is preparing medical supplies for the Palestinians to help them in their fight against the coronavirus which is likely to reach Palestine soon, the Indian mission in the West Bank said in a statement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi last month spoke to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas over the phone and discussed the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He appreciated efforts being made by the Palestinian Authority (PA) to protect its population and assured all possible support from India.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar later talked to his Palestinian counterpart Riad Malki and reiterated India's commitment to supporting Palestine in its battle against the global pandemic.

So far, 554 COVID-19 cases have been detected in the West Bank under PA and east Jerusalem, with two casualties.

Twenty people were found infected with the virus in Gaza, of which 14 are said to have recovered.

Separately, 17 agreements have been signed under an India-Palestine development partnership between the two sides in the fields of agriculture, health care, information technology, youth affairs, consular affairs, women empowerment and media in the past five years.

New Delhi is to provide an assistance of around USD 72 million through these agreements in projects like the post-2014 war reconstruction efforts in Gaza, construction of five schools, setting up a centre of excellence for information and communication technologies at Al-Quds University and developing a satellite centre in Ramallah.

India has given USD 2 million in aid to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency working for the welfare of Palestinian refugees in support of its core programmes and services, including education and health, amidst the coronavirus crisis.

India has given USD 2 million in aid to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency working for the welfare of Palestinian refugees in support of its core programmes and services, including education and health, amidst the coronavirus crisis. India had increased its annual contribution to the UNRWA from USD 1.25 million in 2016 to USD 5 million in 2019. It pledged another USD 5 million for 2020 which opens its way to become a member of the agency's advisory commission, according to official sources. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) applauded India's financial support to keep its basic services operating, especially under the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The contribution was presented to the UN agency by the Representative of India (ROI) to the State of Palestine, Sunil Kumar. "On behalf of the agency, I would like to express my deep appreciation to the Government of India for advancing part of its contribution, which will help UNRWA address cash flow challenges," Marc Lassouaoui, chief of the Donor Relations at the agency said. "The continued determination and commitment of India in support of the Palestine refugees is commendable, in particular under the current circumstances brought on us by COVID-19," he said. "On behalf of the Government of India, I would like to express my appreciation for the commendable work and endeavours carried out by the UNRWA. We believe that our contribution will support the agency's activities in providing the needed assistance to Palestinian refugees, and assist in achieving their full human development potential," Mr Kumar said. India's contribution will support the agency's "dire" financial situation due to the funding gaps that risk its core services to the Palestinian refugees in the fields of education and health. About 3.1 million Palestine refugees depend on health services provided by the UNRWA. At the same time, the agency's schools educate 526,000 students every year, of which half are female. The agency was created in December 1949 by the UN to support the relief and human development of Palestinian refugees. The UNRWA definition of "refugee" covers Palestinians who fled or were expelled from their homes during the 1948 War. Meanwhile, India is preparing medical supplies for the Palestinians to help them in their fight against the coronavirus which is likely to reach Palestine soon, the Indian mission in the West Bank said in a statement. Prime Minister Narendra Modi last month spoke to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas over the phone and discussed the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He appreciated efforts being made by the Palestinian Authority (PA) to protect its population and assured all possible support from India. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar later talked to his Palestinian counterpart Riad Malki and reiterated India's commitment to supporting Palestine in its battle against the global pandemic. So far, 554 COVID-19 cases have been detected in the West Bank under PA and east Jerusalem, with two casualties. Twenty people were found infected with the virus in Gaza, of which 14 are said to have recovered. Separately, 17 agreements have been signed under an India-Palestine development partnership between the two sides in the fields of agriculture, health care, information technology, youth affairs, consular affairs, women empowerment and media in the past five years. New Delhi is to provide an assistance of around USD 72 million through these agreements in projects like the post-2014 war reconstruction efforts in Gaza, construction of five schools, setting up a centre of excellence for information and communication technologies at Al-Quds University and developing a satellite centre in Ramallah.

UN calls Indian aid of $2 million for Palestinian refugees 'commendable'

An attempt by Estonia and Germany to overcome an impasse between the United States and China at the United Nations Security Council instead appeared on Thursday to have reinforced their stalemate over action on the coronavirus pandemic.

For more than seven weeks the 15-member council has been trying to agree on a text that ultimately aims to back a March 23 call by UN&nbsp;chief Antonio Guterres for a ceasefire in global conflicts so the world can focus on the pandemic.

But talks on a resolution drafted by France and Tunisia have been stymied by a stand-off between China and the United States over whether to urge support for the World Health Organization. The United States does not want a reference to the global health body, while China has insisted it be included.

So on Tuesday, Estonia and Germany circulated a new streamlined draft text to the Security Council that simply focuses on backing Guterres and calling for a 90-day humanitarian truce in conflicts around the world. It does not reference WHO.

“All we want to see is a resolution that states the ceasefire,” US&nbsp;Ambassador to the United Nations Kelly Craft said during a Thursday online conversation with the Institute of Politics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

“It doesn’t matter what country puts forth that resolution. What matters is that it’s streamlined, it speaks about the global ceasefire and making sure that humanitarian aid is reaching those people that are most in need,” she said, signaling support for Estonia and Germany’s draft.

However, a Chinese diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the French and Tunisian draft resolution, which made a veiled reference to the WHO, “still enjoys the overwhelming support from the members and represents the best way forward.”

“There is no possibility for adoption of the German and Estonian draft,” the diplomat said.

Washington has halted funding for the WHO, a UN&nbsp;agency, after President Donald Trump accused it of being “China-centric” and promoting China’s “disinformation” about the outbreak, assertions the WHO denies.

It appeared last week that the Security Council had reached a compromise on the French and Tunisian-drafted resolution. Instead of naming the WHO, the draft referenced “specialized health agencies.” The WHO is the only such agency.

But Washington rejected that language, diplomats said. The Chinese diplomat said Beijing had agreed to the compromise.

While the Security Council - charged with maintaining international peace and security - cannot do much to deal with the coronavirus itself, diplomats and analysts say it can project global unity by backing Guterres’ ceasefire call.

An attempt by Estonia and Germany to overcome an impasse between the United States and China at the United Nations Security Council instead appeared on Thursday to have reinforced their stalemate over action on the coronavirus pandemic.

An attempt by Estonia and Germany to overcome an impasse between the United States and China at the United Nations Security Council instead appeared on Thursday to have reinforced their stalemate over action on the coronavirus pandemic. For more than seven weeks the 15-member council has been trying to agree on a text that ultimately aims to back a March 23 call by UN chief Antonio Guterres for a ceasefire in global conflicts so the world can focus on the pandemic. But talks on a resolution drafted by France and Tunisia have been stymied by a stand-off between China and the United States over whether to urge support for the World Health Organization. The United States does not want a reference to the global health body, while China has insisted it be included. So on Tuesday, Estonia and Germany circulated a new streamlined draft text to the Security Council that simply focuses on backing Guterres and calling for a 90-day humanitarian truce in conflicts around the world. It does not reference WHO. “All we want to see is a resolution that states the ceasefire,” US Ambassador to the United Nations Kelly Craft said during a Thursday online conversation with the Institute of Politics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. “It doesn’t matter what country puts forth that resolution. What matters is that it’s streamlined, it speaks about the global ceasefire and making sure that humanitarian aid is reaching those people that are most in need,” she said, signaling support for Estonia and Germany’s draft. However, a Chinese diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the French and Tunisian draft resolution, which made a veiled reference to the WHO, “still enjoys the overwhelming support from the members and represents the best way forward.” “There is no possibility for adoption of the German and Estonian draft,” the diplomat said. Washington has halted funding for the WHO, a UN agency, after President Donald Trump accused it of being “China-centric” and promoting China’s “disinformation” about the outbreak, assertions the WHO denies. It appeared last week that the Security Council had reached a compromise on the French and Tunisian-drafted resolution. Instead of naming the WHO, the draft referenced “specialized health agencies.” The WHO is the only such agency. But Washington rejected that language, diplomats said. The Chinese diplomat said Beijing had agreed to the compromise. While the Security Council - charged with maintaining international peace and security - cannot do much to deal with the coronavirus itself, diplomats and analysts say it can project global unity by backing Guterres’ ceasefire call.

US-China deadlock over United Nations coronavirus action deepens

Turkey said on Sunday it would deem the forces of Libyan General Khalifa Haftar "legitimate targets" if their attacks on its interests and diplomatic missions in Libya persisted.

Turkey backs Libya`s internationally-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA). It has signed a military cooperation deal with the GNA, which has been trying to fend off an offensive by Haftar`s forces.

Ankara views Haftar`s forces, which are backed by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Russia, as "putschists".

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"If our missions and our interests in Libya are targeted, we will deem Haftar`s forces legitimate targets," the foreign ministry said in a statement in which it also slammed the United Nations for not taking action over Haftar`s attacks.

"It is unacceptable for the United Nations to remain silent against this carnage any longer," it said. "Countries providing military, financial and political aid to Haftar are responsible for the suffering that the people of Libya are enduring and the chaos and instability the country is being dragged into."

It also said attacks on Tripoli`s Mitiga airport early on Saturday, part of an intensified barrage of artillery fire on the capital, were war crimes.

On Thursday, Turkey and Italy said the area around their embassies in Tripoli had been shelled.

Haftar`s Libyan National Army (LNA) has been fighting for more than a year to capture Tripoli from the GNA with frequent shelling of the capital. The United Nations said four fifths of the 130 civilian casualties recorded in the Libyan conflict in the first quarter of 2020 were caused by LNA ground fighting.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday the LNA was in a "period of regression" after NATO member Turkey threw its support behind the GNA.

"Even the efforts of countries that provide him (Haftar) with unlimited financial support and weapons will not be able to save him," Erdogan said.

Pro-GNA forces have retaken some territory from the LNA around Tripoli during an escalation of fighting in recent weeks with the help of Turkish-supplied drones.

The LNA says Turkey has established a military drone base at Mitiga, but the GNA denies this.

Turkey said on Sunday it would deem the forces of Libyan General Khalifa Haftar "legitimate targets" if their attacks on its interests and diplomatic missions in Libya persisted.

Turkey said on Sunday it would deem the forces of Libyan General Khalifa Haftar "legitimate targets" if their attacks on its interests and diplomatic missions in Libya persisted. Turkey backs Libya`s internationally-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA). It has signed a military cooperation deal with the GNA, which has been trying to fend off an offensive by Haftar`s forces. Ankara views Haftar`s forces, which are backed by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Russia, as "putschists". Also watch: Social distancing benches become new normal in Turkey "If our missions and our interests in Libya are targeted, we will deem Haftar`s forces legitimate targets," the foreign ministry said in a statement in which it also slammed the United Nations for not taking action over Haftar`s attacks. "It is unacceptable for the United Nations to remain silent against this carnage any longer," it said. "Countries providing military, financial and political aid to Haftar are responsible for the suffering that the people of Libya are enduring and the chaos and instability the country is being dragged into." It also said attacks on Tripoli`s Mitiga airport early on Saturday, part of an intensified barrage of artillery fire on the capital, were war crimes. On Thursday, Turkey and Italy said the area around their embassies in Tripoli had been shelled. Haftar`s Libyan National Army (LNA) has been fighting for more than a year to capture Tripoli from the GNA with frequent shelling of the capital. The United Nations said four fifths of the 130 civilian casualties recorded in the Libyan conflict in the first quarter of 2020 were caused by LNA ground fighting. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday the LNA was in a "period of regression" after NATO member Turkey threw its support behind the GNA. "Even the efforts of countries that provide him (Haftar) with unlimited financial support and weapons will not be able to save him," Erdogan said. Pro-GNA forces have retaken some territory from the LNA around Tripoli during an escalation of fighting in recent weeks with the help of Turkish-supplied drones. The LNA says Turkey has established a military drone base at Mitiga, but the GNA denies this.

Turkey threatens to target Haftar's forces in Libya if attacks persist

UN report says that lockdown around the world has affected close to 2 BN workers. UN body has warned that many of them are left to choose rising infection and putting food on a table. Watch report.

UN: Informal workers close to starvation: 2 BN workers affected by COVID-19 lockdown

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg&nbsp;and a group of 15 other young climate activists have hit back at the attempt to throw out their climate crisis case.

They have pushed forward their legal complaint at the United Nations against against five countries, including Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany and Turkey, which they accuse of backing fossil-fuels and endangering children's well-being through the climate crisis,&nbsp;despite attempts to have it thrown out.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-one-third-of-global-population-could-reside-in-deadly-hot-areas-by-2070-study-296857" hreflang="en">More than one-third of global population could reside in deadly hot areas by 2070: Study</a>

The countries have ''breached&nbsp;their obligations under the international Convention on the Rights of Child, by promoting fossil fuels and failing to curb greenhouse gas emissions for decades, despite knowing about the risks of climate change,'' the group said in a press release.

Brazil, France and Germany&nbsp;replied to the petition response and&nbsp;said that the UN cannot hear complaint against ''five countries of flouting child rights to clean air.''

With the filing, Thunberg and her fellow activists are escalating a confrontation with the five countries that stemmed from a lawsuit they formally filed to the UN Convention back in September 2019.

The group focused on these countries, as they are the biggest climate polluters of the 45 nations that have adopted an optional protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The 2019 complaint alleges that the countries knew about the negative impact on the environment of their carbon emissions and did nothing to prevent it.The lawsuit joins a growing number of attempts to bring climate cases to court, alleging that government or businesses have flouted the law or failed in their international obligations.

One of the most successful has been in the&nbsp;Netherlands, in the Urgenda case, in which judges found the government must change its policies to tackle emissions and the climate crisis.

&nbsp;

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and a group of 15 other young climate activists have hit back at the attempt to throw out their climate crisis case. They have pushed forward their legal complaint at the United Nations against against five countries, including Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany and Turkey, which they accuse of backing fossil-fuels and endangering children's well-being through the climate crisis, despite attempts to have it thrown out.

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and a group of 15 other young climate activists have hit back at the attempt to throw out their climate crisis case. They have pushed forward their legal complaint at the United Nations against against five countries, including Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany and Turkey, which they accuse of backing fossil-fuels and endangering children's well-being through the climate crisis, despite attempts to have it thrown out. Also read: More than one-third of global population could reside in deadly hot areas by 2070: Study The countries have ''breached their obligations under the international Convention on the Rights of Child, by promoting fossil fuels and failing to curb greenhouse gas emissions for decades, despite knowing about the risks of climate change,'' the group said in a press release. Brazil, France and Germany replied to the petition response and said that the UN cannot hear complaint against ''five countries of flouting child rights to clean air.'' With the filing, Thunberg and her fellow activists are escalating a confrontation with the five countries that stemmed from a lawsuit they formally filed to the UN Convention back in September 2019. The group focused on these countries, as they are the biggest climate polluters of the 45 nations that have adopted an optional protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The 2019 complaint alleges that the countries knew about the negative impact on the environment of their carbon emissions and did nothing to prevent it.The lawsuit joins a growing number of attempts to bring climate cases to court, alleging that government or businesses have flouted the law or failed in their international obligations. One of the most successful has been in the Netherlands, in the Urgenda case, in which judges found the government must change its policies to tackle emissions and the climate crisis.

Greta Thunberg pushes legal complaint against five countries at UN

Estonia, the country which will chair the United Nations Security Council&nbsp;(UNSC) for the month of May, has termed the body's inability to come out with COVID-19 resolution as a "shame."

At the virtual press conference by Permanent Representative of Estonia to the United Nations Ambassador Sven Jürgenson said, "it is really a shame we have not been able to fulfill&nbsp;our responsibility. There are stumbling blocks, the situation is blocked at the moment, but the talks are continuing, continuing at a high level. And I hope we come out of the gridlock."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-lockdown-extension-will-lead-to-a-faster-recovery-says-top-economist-arvind-panagariya-296260">EXCLUSIVE: Lockdown extension will lead to a faster recovery, says top economist Arvind Panagariya</a>

Estonia has been pushing for COVID-19 meeting and a press statement since March but could not get support because few permanent members of UNSC, notably China had some issues regarding it. The matter finally came up on April 9 under the presidency of the Dominican Republic and now a Franco-Tunisian draft resolution is being discussed.

"It is shame that we have not able to take leadership. There are certain reasons, Estonia has been one of the most active in pushing, pushing very very strongly for more than a month to be there and for the security council to stand were it should stand", the envoy said.

Highlighting the difference, Sven Jürgenson said, "There is no political agreement especially among 2 members of the council and we are expecting to see development and everyone wants council to move forward".

The China-US tiff continues to block the move at UNSC and with Washington and Bejing publicly involved in a war of words, no one knows, when any consensus emerges.&nbsp;

Jürgenson explained, "Still no consensus...(due to) some security council member state...work continues and hope differences will be solved. I do feel as a member of the council UNSC should be active on the matter"

Asked about another initiative on COVID-19, he said, "it would be stuck exactly with the same problem"

United Nations, especially the core body--United Nations Security Council is found missing during the COVID-19 crisis. It was G20 that took the responsibility for a global strategy to deal with the crisis and leaders of the group&nbsp;in March did a video conference to chalk out an action plan to deal with the challenge.&nbsp;

The idea of the meet was discussed by Indian PM Narendra Modi with his G20 counterparts including the chair of G20 Saudi Arabia. PM Modi had in the month of March taken the global lead in the call for a video conference of SAARC countries for a common approach to deal with the crisis.

Estonia, the country which will chair the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of May, has termed the body's inability to come out with COVID-19 resolution as a "shame.

Estonia, the country which will chair the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of May, has termed the body's inability to come out with COVID-19 resolution as a "shame." At the virtual press conference by Permanent Representative of Estonia to the United Nations Ambassador Sven Jürgenson said, "it is really a shame we have not been able to fulfill our responsibility. There are stumbling blocks, the situation is blocked at the moment, but the talks are continuing, continuing at a high level. And I hope we come out of the gridlock." Also read | EXCLUSIVE: Lockdown extension will lead to a faster recovery, says top economist Arvind Panagariya Estonia has been pushing for COVID-19 meeting and a press statement since March but could not get support because few permanent members of UNSC, notably China had some issues regarding it. The matter finally came up on April 9 under the presidency of the Dominican Republic and now a Franco-Tunisian draft resolution is being discussed. "It is shame that we have not able to take leadership. There are certain reasons, Estonia has been one of the most active in pushing, pushing very very strongly for more than a month to be there and for the security council to stand were it should stand", the envoy said. Highlighting the difference, Sven Jürgenson said, "There is no political agreement especially among 2 members of the council and we are expecting to see development and everyone wants council to move forward". The China-US tiff continues to block the move at UNSC and with Washington and Bejing publicly involved in a war of words, no one knows, when any consensus emerges. Jürgenson explained, "Still no consensus...(due to) some security council member state...work continues and hope differences will be solved. I do feel as a member of the council UNSC should be active on the matter" Asked about another initiative on COVID-19, he said, "it would be stuck exactly with the same problem" United Nations, especially the core body--United Nations Security Council is found missing during the COVID-19 crisis. It was G20 that took the responsibility for a global strategy to deal with the crisis and leaders of the group in March did a video conference to chalk out an action plan to deal with the challenge. The idea of the meet was discussed by Indian PM Narendra Modi with his G20 counterparts including the chair of G20 Saudi Arabia. PM Modi had in the month of March taken the global lead in the call for a video conference of SAARC countries for a common approach to deal with the crisis.

New UNSC Prez says council's inability to come out with coronavirus resolution a 'shame'

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