The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that the world is already only a few tenths of a degree away from the global target of limiting warming to 1.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that the world is already only a few tenths of a degree away from the global target of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. In its latest report on climate change, released on Monday (March 20), the IPCC said that there are multiple, feasible and effective options to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to human-caused climate change. "This Synthesis Report underscores the urgency of taking more ambitious action and shows that if we act now, we can still secure a liveable sustainable future for all," the report said. Back in 2018, the IPCC highlighted the unprecedented scale of the challenge needed to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. But five years later, this challenge has even become greater because of a continued increase in greenhouse gas emissions. If left unchecked, climate change will undo a lot of the progress made over the past years in development. So what is climate change, what are its consequences and what are the solutions? What is climate change? According to the United Nations (UN), climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. The UN says that these shifts may be natural, such as through variations in the solar cycle. Climate change can affect our health, ability to grow food, housing, safety and work. "Some of us are already more vulnerable to climate impacts, such as people living in small island nations and other developing countries," the UN says. "Conditions like sea-level rise and saltwater intrusion have advanced to the point where whole communities have had to relocate, and protracted droughts are putting people at risk of famine. In the future, the number of “climate refugees” is expected to rise," it adds. What are the consequences? The UN says that the consequences of climate change include intense droughts, water scarcity, severe fires, rising sea levels, melting polar ice, catastrophic storms and declining biodiversity. What happens if climate change is left unchecked? If left unchecked, climate change can undo a lot of the progress made over the past years in development. It can also exacerbate threats such as food and water scarcity, which can lead to conflict. The UN says that doing nothing will end up costing a lot more than if actions are taken now that will lead to more jobs, greater prosperity, and better lives for all while reducing greenhouse emissions and building climate resilience. Is climate change affecting people's lives? Yes, people's lives are being affected by climate change. Severe weather and rising sea levels are affecting people and their properties in developed and developing countries. The UN points out that climate change is especially affecting the poor and vulnerable, as well as marginalised groups like women, children and the elderly. What are the solutions? Climate change can be addressed, but the efforts have to be ramped up. The UN says that countries must transform their energy, industries, transport, food, agriculture and forestry systems to ensure that rise in global temperatures can be limited to well below two degrees, perhaps even 1.5. "We also need to anticipate, adapt and become resilient to the current and future impacts of climate change," the UN says. It points out that many climate change solutions can deliver economic benefits while improving lives, and protecting the environment. The UN also says that switching energy systems from fossil fuels to renewables like solar or wind will reduce the emissions driving climate change. Switching energy systems from fossil fuels to renewables like solar or wind will reduce the emissions driving climate change. "But we have to start right now. While a growing coalition of countries is committing to net zero emissions by 2050, about half of emissions cuts must be in place by 2030 to keep warming below 1.5°C. Fossil fuel production must decline by roughly 6 per cent per year between 2020 and 2030." The importance of keeping warming below 1.5ºCelsius In several UN reports, thousands of scientists and government reviewers have agreed that limiting global temperature rise to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius would help avoid the worst climate impacts and maintain a livable climate. Yet policies which are currently in place point to a 2.8°C temperature rise by the end of the century. The Synthesis report on Monday said that if temperatures are to be kept to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, deep, rapid, and sustained greenhouse gas emissions reductions will be needed in all sectors this decade. Emissions need to go down and be cut by almost half by 2030, if this goal has any chance of being achieved. On Monday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the report as a “how-to guide to defuse the climate time bomb.” Guterres proposed to the G20 a "Climate Solidarity Pact,” where big emitters would make extra efforts to cut emissions, and wealthier countries would mobilise financial and technical resources to support emerging economies in a common effort to ensure that global temperatures do not rise by more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: What is climate change? What are its consequences? | A lowdown

A United Nations official expressed his dissatisfaction over the services provided by the Air India flight officials, calling it very poor, last week. The official, who had recently boarded a flight from New York to New Delhi, took to his Twitter handle to write about broken seats and cockroaches on the flight and lack of "entertainment/call buttons/reading lights".&nbsp;

"As a UN diplomat, I've flown worldwide, but Air India 102 JFK to Delhi was my worst flight experience: broken seats, no entertainment/call buttons/reading lights, and cockroaches. Poison spray. Disregard for customer care," wrote the diplomat on Twitter.

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As a UN diplomat, I've flown worldwide, but Air India 102 JFK to Delhi was my worst flight experience: broken seats, no entertainment/call buttons/reading lights, and cockroaches! Poison spray. Disregard for customer care! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/airtravelnightmare?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#airtravelnightmare</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AirIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AirIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TataGroup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TataGroup</a> <a href="https://t.co/5UcBCzSaoZ">pic.twitter.com/5UcBCzSaoZ</a>
— GPS (@Gurpreet13hee13) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gurpreet13hee13/status/1634980476334247937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The diplomat on Monday again demanded clarification on how Air India flights coming from New York have cockroaches near seats and seriously lack any onboard safety equipment.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/air-india-on-a-hiring-spree-with-one-role-paying-as-much-as-rs-2-crore-564281">Air India on a hiring spree with one role paying as much as Rs 2 crore</a>

"Any thoughts and comments on how Air India flights from NY are infested with cockroaches and has non-operational standard Onboard safety equipment?" wrote the diplomat.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/RNTata2000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RNTata2000</a> Any thoughts and comments on how Air India flights from NY are infested with cockroaches and has non-operational standard Onboard safety equipment?<a href="https://twitter.com/USFAA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USFAA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airindiain</a> ? <a href="https://t.co/wvmPIrBjkA">https://t.co/wvmPIrBjkA</a>
— GPS (@Gurpreet13hee13) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gurpreet13hee13/status/1637670769441357824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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After the official's second tweet, Air India apologised for the bad experience and stated that they will review the case.&nbsp;

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Dear Sir, we sincerely regret the experience you have had with us. This is not something good to hear. Please help us with your booking details via DM for us to highlight the same to the relevant team for necessary review.
— Air India (@airindiain) <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain/status/1637672337318223873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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This is not the first time that the passengers of Air India flights have expressed their disappointment over their poor experience. In 2019, Air India was under fire after facing an accusation of a dead cockroach's presence in the breakfast which was offered on a flight from Bhopal to Mumbai.&nbsp;

The passenger had complained that he was ignored by the flight crew when he informed them about the dead cockroach's presence in the sambar which was offered in the breakfast.

WATCH | Air India amends existing in-flight liquor policy after Pee-gate scandal

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Recently, another passenger of Air India complained that he found an insect in his meal and shared a video of the incident on Twitter.

On the same day, famous Indian chef Sanjeev Kapoor complained about the deteriorated quality of the meal he was offered on an Air India flight from Nagpur to Mumbai.

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A United Nations official expressed his dissatisfaction over the services provided by the Air India flight officials, calling it very poor, last week. The official, who had recently boarded a flight from New York to New Delhi, took to his Twitter handle to write about broken seats and cockroaches on the flight and lack of "entertainment/call buttons/reading lights".

A United Nations official expressed his dissatisfaction over the services provided by the Air India flight officials, calling it very poor, last week. The official, who had recently boarded a flight from New York to New Delhi, took to his Twitter handle to write about broken seats and cockroaches on the flight and lack of "entertainment/call buttons/reading lights". "As a UN diplomat, I've flown worldwide, but Air India 102 JFK to Delhi was my worst flight experience: broken seats, no entertainment/call buttons/reading lights, and cockroaches. Poison spray. Disregard for customer care," wrote the diplomat on Twitter. As a UN diplomat, I've flown worldwide, but Air India 102 JFK to Delhi was my worst flight experience: broken seats, no entertainment/call buttons/reading lights, and cockroaches! Poison spray. Disregard for customer care! #airtravelnightmare #AirIndia #TataGroup pic.twitter.com/5UcBCzSaoZ — GPS (@Gurpreet13hee13) March 12, 2023 × The diplomat on Monday again demanded clarification on how Air India flights coming from New York have cockroaches near seats and seriously lack any onboard safety equipment. ALSO READ | Air India on a hiring spree with one role paying as much as Rs 2 crore "Any thoughts and comments on how Air India flights from NY are infested with cockroaches and has non-operational standard Onboard safety equipment?" wrote the diplomat. @RNTata2000 Any thoughts and comments on how Air India flights from NY are infested with cockroaches and has non-operational standard Onboard safety equipment?@USFAA @airindiain ? https://t.co/wvmPIrBjkA — GPS (@Gurpreet13hee13) March 20, 2023 × After the official's second tweet, Air India apologised for the bad experience and stated that they will review the case. Dear Sir, we sincerely regret the experience you have had with us. This is not something good to hear. Please help us with your booking details via DM for us to highlight the same to the relevant team for necessary review. — Air India (@airindiain) March 20, 2023 × This is not the first time that the passengers of Air India flights have expressed their disappointment over their poor experience. In 2019, Air India was under fire after facing an accusation of a dead cockroach's presence in the breakfast which was offered on a flight from Bhopal to Mumbai. The passenger had complained that he was ignored by the flight crew when he informed them about the dead cockroach's presence in the sambar which was offered in the breakfast. WATCH | Air India amends existing in-flight liquor policy after Pee-gate scandal Recently, another passenger of Air India complained that he found an insect in his meal and shared a video of the incident on Twitter. On the same day, famous Indian chef Sanjeev Kapoor complained about the deteriorated quality of the meal he was offered on an Air India flight from Nagpur to Mumbai. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Broken seats, cockroaches! UN official expresses disappointment over Air India flight

Cyclone Freddy has affected over 500,000 people in Malawi and has caused more than 400 deaths in southern Africa, said United Nations (UN) on Friday (March 17). Cyclone Freddy has dissipated after wreaking havoc.

"Over 500,000 people have been affected -- including 326 people killed and over 183,100 people displaced," the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said in a report.

It has warned that these figures are expected to rise in the coming &nbsp;

"The record-breaking weather system hit Malawi at the end of the rainy season when rivers and water bodies were already at high levels," OCHA said.

United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) country director Paul Turnbull said Friday it was clear that the country "will need significant support".

Many areas were rendered inaccessible "restricting movement of assessment and humanitarian teams and life-saving supplies," he said.

"We are ramping up as quickly as we can under the circumstances" he added in a statement, vowing to assist around 130,000 people affected by the "tragic" situation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Cyclone Freddy has affected over 500,000 people in Malawi and has caused more than 400 deaths in southern Africa, said United Nations (UN) on Friday (March 17). Cyclone Freddy has dissipated after wreaking havoc.

Cyclone Freddy has affected over 500,000 people in Malawi and has caused more than 400 deaths in southern Africa, said United Nations (UN) on Friday (March 17). Cyclone Freddy has dissipated after wreaking havoc. "Over 500,000 people have been affected -- including 326 people killed and over 183,100 people displaced," the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said in a report. It has warned that these figures are expected to rise in the coming "The record-breaking weather system hit Malawi at the end of the rainy season when rivers and water bodies were already at high levels," OCHA said. United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) country director Paul Turnbull said Friday it was clear that the country "will need significant support". Many areas were rendered inaccessible "restricting movement of assessment and humanitarian teams and life-saving supplies," he said. "We are ramping up as quickly as we can under the circumstances" he added in a statement, vowing to assist around 130,000 people affected by the "tragic" situation. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Cyclone Freddy has affected more than 500,000 people in Malawi: UN

It is a very exciting time for Indian cinema, with many filmmakers and cinema getting well-deserved international acclaim. Close on the heels of RRR's Oscar triumph for Naatu Naatu, another film from south India is making its presence felt on the international arena. Rishab Shetty's Kantara will be exhibited on March 17 at the United Nations in Geneva, at Pathe Balexert in Hall No 13.

Writer, director and actor Rishab Shetty has already reached Geneva and has completed the oral submission. Taking to social media, the centre for global affairs and public policy shared “@shetty_rishab will be talking about Indian Cinema's role in fostering discussions on environment, climate &amp; conservation, at UNHRC Session in Geneva. CGAPP Director Anindya Sengupta met him on the sidelines of the Session as #Kantara star brings Indian stories to the world stage.”

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/shetty_rishab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shetty_rishab</a> will be talking about Indian Cinema's role in fostering discussions on environment, climate &amp; conservation, at UNHRC Session in Geneva. CGAPP Director Anindya Sengupta met him on the sidelines of the Session as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kantara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kantara</a> star brings Indian stories to world stage. <a href="https://t.co/39ugg0iv12">pic.twitter.com/39ugg0iv12</a>
— Centre for Global Affairs &amp; Public Policy (@CGAPPIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/CGAPPIndia/status/1635980382054019073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Rishab Shetty will speak about the role of Indian cinema in fostering discussions on environment, climate, and conservation at the UNHRC Session at Genera, CGAPP Director Anindya Sengupta met him on the sidelines of the session, according to the Centre For Global Affairs and Public Police's social media handle.

Hombale Films is the biggest discovery from the south in cinema. Be it making movies like Kantara and making it a breakout success or delivering massive box office hits with KGF 1 &amp;2 the production house has carved a unique space for itself in the film industry. Soon, the production house will be back in theatres with movies like Yuva and Prabhas starrer Salaar, both being the highly anticipated films of this year.

Kantara was released in the Kannada version and Hindi version on 30th September and 14th October respectively. The film is written and directed by Rishab Shetty. Produced by Vijay Kiragandur and Chaluve Gowda, under Hombale Films, the film features Rishab Shetty, Sapthami Gowda, and Kishore Kumar G in pivotal roles.

It is a very exciting time for Indian cinema, with many filmmakers and cinema getting well-deserved international acclaim. Close on the heels of RRR's Oscar triumph for Naatu Naatu, another film from south India is making its presence felt on the international arena.

It is a very exciting time for Indian cinema, with many filmmakers and cinema getting well-deserved international acclaim. Close on the heels of RRR's Oscar triumph for Naatu Naatu, another film from south India is making its presence felt on the international arena. Rishab Shetty's Kantara will be exhibited on March 17 at the United Nations in Geneva, at Pathe Balexert in Hall No 13. Writer, director and actor Rishab Shetty has already reached Geneva and has completed the oral submission. Taking to social media, the centre for global affairs and public policy shared “@shetty_rishab will be talking about Indian Cinema's role in fostering discussions on environment, climate & conservation, at UNHRC Session in Geneva. CGAPP Director Anindya Sengupta met him on the sidelines of the Session as #Kantara star brings Indian stories to the world stage.” .@shetty_rishab will be talking about Indian Cinema's role in fostering discussions on environment, climate & conservation, at UNHRC Session in Geneva. CGAPP Director Anindya Sengupta met him on the sidelines of the Session as #Kantara star brings Indian stories to world stage. pic.twitter.com/39ugg0iv12 — Centre for Global Affairs & Public Policy (@CGAPPIndia) March 15, 2023 × Rishab Shetty will speak about the role of Indian cinema in fostering discussions on environment, climate, and conservation at the UNHRC Session at Genera, CGAPP Director Anindya Sengupta met him on the sidelines of the session, according to the Centre For Global Affairs and Public Police's social media handle. Hombale Films is the biggest discovery from the south in cinema. Be it making movies like Kantara and making it a breakout success or delivering massive box office hits with KGF 1 &2 the production house has carved a unique space for itself in the film industry. Soon, the production house will be back in theatres with movies like Yuva and Prabhas starrer Salaar, both being the highly anticipated films of this year. Kantara was released in the Kannada version and Hindi version on 30th September and 14th October respectively. The film is written and directed by Rishab Shetty. Produced by Vijay Kiragandur and Chaluve Gowda, under Hombale Films, the film features Rishab Shetty, Sapthami Gowda, and Kishore Kumar G in pivotal roles.

Rishabh Shetty takes Kantara to the UN; to be screened at UNHRC session in Geneva

Global progress on women's rights is "won over decades (is) vanishing before our eyes" said United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Monday. He warned that gender equality remains a distant goal. Speaking during a speech ahead of International Women's Day on March 8, he said, "Gender equality is growing more distant. On the current track, UN Women puts it 300 years away."

Ticking off a litany of abuses like maternal mortality, child marriage, girls being denied education and more, that women face, he said that "women's rights are being abused, threatened, and violated around the world."&nbsp;

Mentioning the dire conditions in Afghanistan, he remarked, "women and girls have been erased from public life."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/140-years-and-counting-once-again-no-women-nominations-for-bank-of-japans-top-spots-561585">140 years and counting; Once again, no women nominations for Bank of Japan's top spots</a>

While he did not name other countries, Guterres stressed that "in many places, women's sexual and reproductive rights are being rolled back (and) in some countries, girls going to school risk kidnapping and assault."

"The patriarchy is fighting back. But so are we," remarked Guterres, adding "the United Nations stands with women and girls everywhere."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-inequality-has-cost-world-usd-70-trillion-since-1990-report-finds-368469" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-inequality-has-cost-world-usd-70-trillion-since-1990-report-finds-368469&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMqs2wrMn9AhVF8TgGHSPADNk4FBAWegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3AzeeP8cE0cx3z5Q0j1nzT" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-inequality-has-cost-world-usd-70-trillion-since-1990-report-finds-368469" target="_blank">Gender inequality&nbsp;has cost world USD 70 trillion since 1990</a>

Guterres called for "collective action" worldwide by governments, civil society and the private sector. The UN chief said they must invest more in "bridging the digital gender divide" and strive to provide gender-responsive education and improve skills training.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Global progress on women's rights is "won over decades (is) vanishing before our eyes" said United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Monday. He warned that gender equality remains a distant goal.

Global progress on women's rights is "won over decades (is) vanishing before our eyes" said United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Monday. He warned that gender equality remains a distant goal. Speaking during a speech ahead of International Women's Day on March 8, he said, "Gender equality is growing more distant. On the current track, UN Women puts it 300 years away." Ticking off a litany of abuses like maternal mortality, child marriage, girls being denied education and more, that women face, he said that "women's rights are being abused, threatened, and violated around the world." Mentioning the dire conditions in Afghanistan, he remarked, "women and girls have been erased from public life." Also read | 140 years and counting; Once again, no women nominations for Bank of Japan's top spots While he did not name other countries, Guterres stressed that "in many places, women's sexual and reproductive rights are being rolled back (and) in some countries, girls going to school risk kidnapping and assault." "The patriarchy is fighting back. But so are we," remarked Guterres, adding "the United Nations stands with women and girls everywhere." Also read | Gender inequality has cost world USD 70 trillion since 1990 Guterres called for "collective action" worldwide by governments, civil society and the private sector. The UN chief said they must invest more in "bridging the digital gender divide" and strive to provide gender-responsive education and improve skills training. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Patriarchy is fighting back...so are we': Gender equality is still 300 years away, says UN

A United Nations committe expressed concern about situation of Uyghur minority in China and the use of forced labour against them. The sweeping report has added pressure on Beijing to improve its human rights record.

A group of UN appointed independent experts has come up with these findings. These follow a series of Geneva hearings last month in which right groups raised large number of topics including China's COVID-19 policies, treatment of human rights defenders and and its Muslim minority.

Last year, a report by the UN human rights chief said China's treatment of Uyghurs, a mainly Muslim ethnic minority that numbers around 10 million in Xinjiang, in the country's far west, may constitute crimes against humanity.

China vigorously denies the allegations.

The 18-person UN committee that monitors countries' compliance under the international covenant on economic, social and cultural rights voiced concern over "numerous indications of coercive measures, including forced labour" against ethnic minorities, including Uyghurs.

It called on Beijing to immediately pass legislation prohibiting coercive measures; dismantle all systems of forced labour; and release all individuals subject to it.

China submitted an 11-page response to the report saying it would carefully study the recommendations and was open to implementing any "that are suited to China's national realities". However, it rejected the Xinjiang recommendations, among others, calling them "untruthful".

(With inputs from agencies)

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A United Nations committe expressed concern about situation of Uyghur minority in China and the use of forced labour against them. The sweeping report has added pressure on Beijing to improve its human rights record.

A United Nations committe expressed concern about situation of Uyghur minority in China and the use of forced labour against them. The sweeping report has added pressure on Beijing to improve its human rights record. A group of UN appointed independent experts has come up with these findings. These follow a series of Geneva hearings last month in which right groups raised large number of topics including China's COVID-19 policies, treatment of human rights defenders and and its Muslim minority. Last year, a report by the UN human rights chief said China's treatment of Uyghurs, a mainly Muslim ethnic minority that numbers around 10 million in Xinjiang, in the country's far west, may constitute crimes against humanity. China vigorously denies the allegations. The 18-person UN committee that monitors countries' compliance under the international covenant on economic, social and cultural rights voiced concern over "numerous indications of coercive measures, including forced labour" against ethnic minorities, including Uyghurs. It called on Beijing to immediately pass legislation prohibiting coercive measures; dismantle all systems of forced labour; and release all individuals subject to it. China submitted an 11-page response to the report saying it would carefully study the recommendations and was open to implementing any "that are suited to China's national realities". However, it rejected the Xinjiang recommendations, among others, calling them "untruthful". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN expresses concern about Uyghurs, forced labour in China

United Nations Chief Antonio Guterres has slammed richer nations for climate catastrophes. Speaking at a summit in Doha for the least-developed countries, Guterres accused big economies for record-high greenhouse gas emissions leading to the disparity between fossil fuels giants with massive profits.

UN chief slams richer nations for climate change, says 'they continue to heat up our planet'

The United Nations nuclear watchdog discovered uranium particles enriched up to 83.7 per cent in the underground Fordo nuclear site of Iran, The Associated Press reported.

International Atomic Energy Agency's confidential quarterly report distributed to member states is likely to escalate tensions between the West and Iran over the latter's nuclear programme.

The report comes at a time when Tehran is dealing with internal unrest after months of protests and anger from Western countries over providing bomb-carrying drones to Russia in the war against Ukraine.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-calls-for-no-use-of-nuclear-weapons-in-russia-ukraine-war-565298">China calls for 'no use' of nuclear weapons in Russia-Ukraine war</a>

The IAEA report only mentions the “particles”, suggesting that no stockpile of uranium enriched above 69 per cent is being built by Iran – the level which is being enriched by it for some time.

According to the IAEA report, on January 21, the inspectors discovered that two cascades of IR-6 centrifuges at the Fordo facility in Iran were configured in a way “substantially different” to what was declared previously.

The following day, samples were taken by the IAEA, which showed up to 83.7 per cent purity in particles, stated the report.

“Iran informed the agency that ‘unintended fluctuations’ in enrichment levels may have occurred during the transition period. Discussions between the agency and Iran to clarify the matter are ongoing,” the IAEA report stated.

The IAEA report also added that the agency would “further increase the frequency and intensity of agency verification activities” at Fordo after the uranium's discovery.

WATCH | Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev reiterates nuclear threat

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Speaking to the AP, Iran’s mission to the United Nations said that IAEA official Massimo Aparo visited the Islamic Republic last week “and checked the alleged enrichment rate”.

“Based on Iran’s assessment, the alleged enrichment percentage between Iran and the IAEA is resolved. Due to the IAEA report being prepared before his trip, his trip’s results aren’t in it and hopefully the IAEA director-general will mention it in his oral report to the board of governors in March,” the mission stated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations nuclear watchdog discovered uranium particles enriched up to 83.7 per cent in the underground Fordo nuclear site of Iran, The Associated Press reported.

The United Nations nuclear watchdog discovered uranium particles enriched up to 83.7 per cent in the underground Fordo nuclear site of Iran, The Associated Press reported. International Atomic Energy Agency's confidential quarterly report distributed to member states is likely to escalate tensions between the West and Iran over the latter's nuclear programme. The report comes at a time when Tehran is dealing with internal unrest after months of protests and anger from Western countries over providing bomb-carrying drones to Russia in the war against Ukraine. ALSO READ | China calls for 'no use' of nuclear weapons in Russia-Ukraine war The IAEA report only mentions the “particles”, suggesting that no stockpile of uranium enriched above 69 per cent is being built by Iran – the level which is being enriched by it for some time. According to the IAEA report, on January 21, the inspectors discovered that two cascades of IR-6 centrifuges at the Fordo facility in Iran were configured in a way “substantially different” to what was declared previously. The following day, samples were taken by the IAEA, which showed up to 83.7 per cent purity in particles, stated the report. “Iran informed the agency that ‘unintended fluctuations’ in enrichment levels may have occurred during the transition period. Discussions between the agency and Iran to clarify the matter are ongoing,” the IAEA report stated. The IAEA report also added that the agency would “further increase the frequency and intensity of agency verification activities” at Fordo after the uranium's discovery. WATCH | Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev reiterates nuclear threat Speaking to the AP, Iran’s mission to the United Nations said that IAEA official Massimo Aparo visited the Islamic Republic last week “and checked the alleged enrichment rate”. “Based on Iran’s assessment, the alleged enrichment percentage between Iran and the IAEA is resolved. Due to the IAEA report being prepared before his trip, his trip’s results aren’t in it and hopefully the IAEA director-general will mention it in his oral report to the board of governors in March,” the mission stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UN discovers uranium particles enriched up to 83.7 per cent in Iran

The United Nations was established in 1945 after the end of World War II,&nbsp;to prevent similar wars in future and maintain international peace between nation-states.&nbsp;The message was very clear – the world cannot afford another war.

After 77 years of the establishment of the UN with the hope of maintaining peace in the global order, the imagery of a peaceful future was ruined by the fierce war that broke out between Russia and Ukraine, as the former launched&nbsp;an offensives to seize regions of Eastern Ukraine. The United Nations tried to take steps to bring the situation under control&nbsp;to prevent major humanitarian and environmental devastation.

UN dismisses warnings ahead of war

Weeks before the war broke out, the United States and the United Kingdom had issued warnings to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres about Russia's intention to wage war against Ukraine, which were dismissed.

However, when Russian tanks entered the Ukrainian territory violating the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, Guterres was forced to consider the suggestion of paying a visit to Kyiv in a show of solidarity with the war-hit Ukraine and make a diplomatic effort to resolve the conflict between the two countries.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russia-ukraine-war-anniversary-indias-mature-geopolitical-navigation-amid-pressure-is-in-spotlight-565376">Russia-Ukraine war anniversary: India's 'mature' geopolitical navigation amid pressure is in spotlight</a>

Resolutions, resolutions and resolutions

On March 2, a resolution was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly criticising Russia's “aggression” against Ukraine. Another resolution was adopted by the UN Human Rights Council on March 4 demanding the “swift and verifiable” withdrawal of Russian-backed armed groups and Russian troops from Ukrainian territories.

On March 5, the UN Human Rights Council called for the urgent establishment of an independent international commission of inquiry. The UN General Assembly demanded humanitarian access and civilian protection in Ukraine on March 24 while accusing Russia of creating a “dire” humanitarian situation.

On March 30, three human rights experts were appointed by the UN to investigate how Russia is violating international law in the war. On April 7, another resolution was adopted by the UN General Assembly for the suspension of Russia from the Human Rights Council.

A new resolution was adopted by the UN General Assembly on April 26 asking all the Security Council's five permanent members to justify the use of the veto.

UN's response to Bucha crimes

Bucha, a town in Kyiv's northwest, was seized by the Russian army quickly as they entered through neighbouring Belarus and reached the capital city's gates from where they were eventually forced to retreat.

However, the world was shocked when images of the carnage appeared in the media in April. Roads and pavements were seen littered with bodies of civilians, few had their hands tied behind their backs. Russia was accused of war crimes by Ukraine and the West, but Moscow denied them vehemently and said the images were “fake”.

Reacting to the incident, UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet had expressed how horrified she was on seeing images of the dead and graves in Bucha. She had also called for independent and effective investigations into the Bucha war crimes.

The United Nations also continued to express its deepening concerns over the apparent housing of prisoners of war in metal cages in the devastated city of Mariupol and the escalation in sexual crimes.

WATCH | Gravitas: The winner of the Ukraine war

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Grain deal – the high point of the UN's involvement in the war

Ukraine, which is the largest exporter of grain in the world, normally supplied 45 million tonnes of grains to the global agricultural market. However, after the invasion by Russia, ships were not able to get safe passage to and from Ukraine which led to the collection of mountains of grains in silos leading to global food crisis.

A Black Sea Grain Initiative was brokered on July 22 by the UN and Turkey which allowed the export of grain from three Ukrainian ports – Chornomorsk, Odesa, and Yuzhny/Pivdennyi.&nbsp;

No recognition of annexed Ukrainian regions

On October 12, 2022, a resolution was passed by the UN General Assembly with a large majority appealing countries to not recognise the four Ukrainian regions – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia – seized by Russia, after Moscow did not heed to its demand of reversing course on its “attempted illegal annexation”.

India questions UN's efficacy

India, which has continued to abstain from voting on resolutions of the UN's General Assembly, recently raised questions over the efficacy of the international organisation.

Expressing India's concerns, New Delhi’s envoy to the UN Ruchira Kamboj said, “Has the UN system, and particularly its principal organ, the UN Security Council, based on a 1945-world construct, not been rendered ineffective to address contemporary challenges to global peace and security? Are we anywhere near a possible solution acceptable to both sides?”

With major economies dwindling, nuke threats being exchanged and peace not in sight, the Russia-Ukraine war is becoming a serious threat to the world order and the onus of establishing peace and harmony within nation-states is lying on the shoulders of the UN.

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The United Nations was established in 1945 after the end of World War II, to prevent similar wars in future and maintain international peace between nation-states.

The United Nations was established in 1945 after the end of World War II, to prevent similar wars in future and maintain international peace between nation-states. The message was very clear – the world cannot afford another war. After 77 years of the establishment of the UN with the hope of maintaining peace in the global order, the imagery of a peaceful future was ruined by the fierce war that broke out between Russia and Ukraine, as the former launched an offensives to seize regions of Eastern Ukraine. The United Nations tried to take steps to bring the situation under control to prevent major humanitarian and environmental devastation. UN dismisses warnings ahead of war Weeks before the war broke out, the United States and the United Kingdom had issued warnings to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres about Russia's intention to wage war against Ukraine, which were dismissed. However, when Russian tanks entered the Ukrainian territory violating the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, Guterres was forced to consider the suggestion of paying a visit to Kyiv in a show of solidarity with the war-hit Ukraine and make a diplomatic effort to resolve the conflict between the two countries. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war anniversary: India's 'mature' geopolitical navigation amid pressure is in spotlight Resolutions, resolutions and resolutions On March 2, a resolution was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly criticising Russia's “aggression” against Ukraine. Another resolution was adopted by the UN Human Rights Council on March 4 demanding the “swift and verifiable” withdrawal of Russian-backed armed groups and Russian troops from Ukrainian territories. On March 5, the UN Human Rights Council called for the urgent establishment of an independent international commission of inquiry. The UN General Assembly demanded humanitarian access and civilian protection in Ukraine on March 24 while accusing Russia of creating a “dire” humanitarian situation. On March 30, three human rights experts were appointed by the UN to investigate how Russia is violating international law in the war. On April 7, another resolution was adopted by the UN General Assembly for the suspension of Russia from the Human Rights Council. A new resolution was adopted by the UN General Assembly on April 26 asking all the Security Council's five permanent members to justify the use of the veto. UN's response to Bucha crimes Bucha, a town in Kyiv's northwest, was seized by the Russian army quickly as they entered through neighbouring Belarus and reached the capital city's gates from where they were eventually forced to retreat. However, the world was shocked when images of the carnage appeared in the media in April. Roads and pavements were seen littered with bodies of civilians, few had their hands tied behind their backs. Russia was accused of war crimes by Ukraine and the West, but Moscow denied them vehemently and said the images were “fake”. Reacting to the incident, UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet had expressed how horrified she was on seeing images of the dead and graves in Bucha. She had also called for independent and effective investigations into the Bucha war crimes. The United Nations also continued to express its deepening concerns over the apparent housing of prisoners of war in metal cages in the devastated city of Mariupol and the escalation in sexual crimes. WATCH | Gravitas: The winner of the Ukraine war Grain deal – the high point of the UN's involvement in the war Ukraine, which is the largest exporter of grain in the world, normally supplied 45 million tonnes of grains to the global agricultural market. However, after the invasion by Russia, ships were not able to get safe passage to and from Ukraine which led to the collection of mountains of grains in silos leading to global food crisis. A Black Sea Grain Initiative was brokered on July 22 by the UN and Turkey which allowed the export of grain from three Ukrainian ports – Chornomorsk, Odesa, and Yuzhny/Pivdennyi. No recognition of annexed Ukrainian regions On October 12, 2022, a resolution was passed by the UN General Assembly with a large majority appealing countries to not recognise the four Ukrainian regions – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia – seized by Russia, after Moscow did not heed to its demand of reversing course on its “attempted illegal annexation”. India questions UN's efficacy India, which has continued to abstain from voting on resolutions of the UN's General Assembly, recently raised questions over the efficacy of the international organisation. Expressing India's concerns, New Delhi’s envoy to the UN Ruchira Kamboj said, “Has the UN system, and particularly its principal organ, the UN Security Council, based on a 1945-world construct, not been rendered ineffective to address contemporary challenges to global peace and security? Are we anywhere near a possible solution acceptable to both sides?” With major economies dwindling, nuke threats being exchanged and peace not in sight, the Russia-Ukraine war is becoming a serious threat to the world order and the onus of establishing peace and harmony within nation-states is lying on the shoulders of the UN. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | UN could not prevent Russia-Ukraine war, has it really lost its efficacy

A minute's silence for Ukrainian lives lost in one year of the war was interrupted by Russia’s ambassador to the UN as the two countries faced off during the war anniversary at the Security Council's session.

Concluding his speech in the chamber, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called for a minute's silence as a tribute “in memory of the victims of the aggression”.

As the UN members present in the council chamber rose in silence, Russia’s United Nations envoy Vasily Nebenzia continued to remain in his seat and appealed for the floor.

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Awkward moment in UN Security Council just now. Ukraine FM asked members to stand for a moment of silence in memory of lives lost to Russian aggression. 
 
Russian diplomats refused to stand saying they will only do so if it is in memory of all victims since 2014. Watch the rest. <a href="https://t.co/U84Poslyrx">pic.twitter.com/U84Poslyrx</a>
— Bahman Kalbasi (@BahmanKalbasi) <a href="https://twitter.com/BahmanKalbasi/status/1629149586223775745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Breaking the silence, he said, “We are getting to our feet to honour the memory of all victims of what has happened in Ukraine starting in 2014 – all of those who perished.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-calls-for-no-use-of-nuclear-weapons-in-russia-ukraine-war-565298">China calls for 'no use' of nuclear weapons in Russia-Ukraine war</a>

By referring to 2014 and overly emphasising the word ‘all', the envoy referred to claims of Russia that the conflict between the two nations began that year after mass protests drove out Ukraine’s Moscow-friendly president from office.

Responding to the removal of the president, Kremlin seized the Crimean Peninsula and supported the insurgency in the mostly Russian-speaking region of Donbas, which was later annexed by Russia.

Nebenzia said, “All lives are priceless, and that is why we’re rising to honour the memory of them all.” Earlier, the ambassador accused Malta, which holds the rotating presidency of the council, of giving preference to Ukraine by letting it speak first, just because it is “part of your geopolitical project”.

He further raised objections over inclusion of 14 European countries' foreign ministers on the speakers list along with European Union’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, stating that the foreign ministers have the same EU position “and will bring no added value” to the debate.

WATCH | WION decodes the future of Ukraine-Russia war

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Responding to the issue raised, Malta’s Foreign Minister Ian Borg said that the European ministers came to New York and requested to speak because “they feel that their countries have been and are still being directly impacted by this war”.

Kuleba, speaking in the council, said that “Ukraine will resist as it has done so far, and Ukraine will win”. He added that Russian President Vladimir Putin “is going to lose much sooner than he thinks”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A minute's silence for Ukrainian lives lost in one year of the war was interrupted by Russia’s ambassador to the UN as the two countries faced off during the war anniversary at the Security Council's session.

A minute's silence for Ukrainian lives lost in one year of the war was interrupted by Russia’s ambassador to the UN as the two countries faced off during the war anniversary at the Security Council's session. Concluding his speech in the chamber, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called for a minute's silence as a tribute “in memory of the victims of the aggression”. As the UN members present in the council chamber rose in silence, Russia’s United Nations envoy Vasily Nebenzia continued to remain in his seat and appealed for the floor. Awkward moment in UN Security Council just now. Ukraine FM asked members to stand for a moment of silence in memory of lives lost to Russian aggression. Russian diplomats refused to stand saying they will only do so if it is in memory of all victims since 2014. Watch the rest. pic.twitter.com/U84Poslyrx — Bahman Kalbasi (@BahmanKalbasi) February 24, 2023 × Breaking the silence, he said, “We are getting to our feet to honour the memory of all victims of what has happened in Ukraine starting in 2014 – all of those who perished.” ALSO READ | China calls for 'no use' of nuclear weapons in Russia-Ukraine war By referring to 2014 and overly emphasising the word ‘all', the envoy referred to claims of Russia that the conflict between the two nations began that year after mass protests drove out Ukraine’s Moscow-friendly president from office. Responding to the removal of the president, Kremlin seized the Crimean Peninsula and supported the insurgency in the mostly Russian-speaking region of Donbas, which was later annexed by Russia. Nebenzia said, “All lives are priceless, and that is why we’re rising to honour the memory of them all.” Earlier, the ambassador accused Malta, which holds the rotating presidency of the council, of giving preference to Ukraine by letting it speak first, just because it is “part of your geopolitical project”. He further raised objections over inclusion of 14 European countries' foreign ministers on the speakers list along with European Union’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, stating that the foreign ministers have the same EU position “and will bring no added value” to the debate. WATCH | WION decodes the future of Ukraine-Russia war Responding to the issue raised, Malta’s Foreign Minister Ian Borg said that the European ministers came to New York and requested to speak because “they feel that their countries have been and are still being directly impacted by this war”. Kuleba, speaking in the council, said that “Ukraine will resist as it has done so far, and Ukraine will win”. He added that Russian President Vladimir Putin “is going to lose much sooner than he thinks”. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WATCH | Russian envoy disrupts UN's one minute of silence for Ukraine

The United Nations has overwhelmingly voted to call for Russia to immediately and unconditionally withdraw from Ukraine, marking one year since Moscow's invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the UN vote.

One year of Russia-Ukraine war: United Nations calls for Russia to withdraw from Ukraine

Just days before completion of a year to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced his displeasure against what he termed was an 'affront'.

"That invasion is an affront to our collective conscience," Guterres said. He called the anniversary "a grim milestone for the people of Ukraine and for the international community."

As fighting raged on in Ukraine, the General Assembly began debating a motion backed by Kyiv and its allies calling for a "just and lasting peace."&nbsp;

In his opening remarks, Guterres highlighted the impact on the world of Russia's February 24, 2022 invasion of its neighbour.&nbsp;

Watch | Ukraine War: Putin addresses massive rally in Moscow ahead of anniversary

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He noted that it has generated eight million refugees, and hurt global food and energy supplies in countries far away from the war zone.&nbsp;

"As I said from day one, Russia's attack on Ukraine challenges the cornerstone principles and values of our multilateral system," he said.&nbsp;

"While prospects may look bleak today, we know that genuine, lasting peace must be based on the UN Charter and international law. The longer the fighting continues, the more difficult this work will be," he said.&nbsp;

With the new resolution, Kyiv hopes to garner the support of at least as many nations as in October, when 143 countries voted to condemn Russia's declared annexation of several Ukrainian territories.&nbsp;

While the measure may not be as tough as Ukraine would like, it hopes that large number of UN states will back the non-binding resolution to demonstrate Kyiv has the support of the global community.&nbsp;

The resolution, supported by dozens of countries stresses "the need to reach, as soon as possible, a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine in line with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-anniversary-how-russia-is-trying-to-drive-support-for-the-invasion-564560">Ukraine war anniversary: How Russia is trying to drive support for the invasion</a>

It reaffirms the UN's "commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine" and calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities.&nbsp;

It also demands Russia "immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine."&nbsp;

Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained battlefield gains in first few months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in face of counter-attacks by Ukrainian forces.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Just days before completion of a year to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced his displeasure against what he termed was an 'affront'.

Just days before completion of a year to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced his displeasure against what he termed was an 'affront'. "That invasion is an affront to our collective conscience," Guterres said. He called the anniversary "a grim milestone for the people of Ukraine and for the international community." As fighting raged on in Ukraine, the General Assembly began debating a motion backed by Kyiv and its allies calling for a "just and lasting peace." In his opening remarks, Guterres highlighted the impact on the world of Russia's February 24, 2022 invasion of its neighbour. Watch | Ukraine War: Putin addresses massive rally in Moscow ahead of anniversary × He noted that it has generated eight million refugees, and hurt global food and energy supplies in countries far away from the war zone. "As I said from day one, Russia's attack on Ukraine challenges the cornerstone principles and values of our multilateral system," he said. "While prospects may look bleak today, we know that genuine, lasting peace must be based on the UN Charter and international law. The longer the fighting continues, the more difficult this work will be," he said. With the new resolution, Kyiv hopes to garner the support of at least as many nations as in October, when 143 countries voted to condemn Russia's declared annexation of several Ukrainian territories. While the measure may not be as tough as Ukraine would like, it hopes that large number of UN states will back the non-binding resolution to demonstrate Kyiv has the support of the global community. The resolution, supported by dozens of countries stresses "the need to reach, as soon as possible, a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine in line with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations." Also Read | Ukraine war anniversary: How Russia is trying to drive support for the invasion It reaffirms the UN's "commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine" and calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities. It also demands Russia "immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine." Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained battlefield gains in first few months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in face of counter-attacks by Ukrainian forces. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Just ahead of one-year anniversary of Ukraine war, UN chief condemns Russian 'affront'

Convoy of United Nations truck carrying aid was allowed to pass through the newly reopened Bab al-Hawa border, crossing into rebel-held North Syria where help has been slow to arrive since last week's earthquake.

New aid-route into rebel-held Syria opens, convoy of 11 UN aid trucks enter country

A study published on Tuesday (February 14) said that the noise produced by mining seabed for nickel, cobalt and other metals for green energy transition could disrupt the ability of whales to navigate ocean depths and communicate with each other. A report by the news agency Reuters said that rocks, as big as a potato, filled with battery metals blanket vast swathes of the ocean floor at depths of four to six kilometres. The report added that several companies proposed to vacuum nodules from the seabed and process their metals for use in batteries for electric vehicles (EVs).&nbsp;

The Metals Company Inc and others were pushing ahead with plans to extract these nodules from the Clarion Clipperton Zone- an ocean region in the northern Pacific. The International Seabed Authority (ISA), a Jamaica-based United Nations (UN) body, granted 17 seabed mining exploration licences in the zone. Tuesday's study, published in the Frontiers in Marine Science and funded by Umweltstiftung Greenpeace, said that 22-30 cetacean species, including endangered blue whales, live in the area.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"The sounds produced from mining operations, including from remotely operated vehicles on the sea floor, overlap with the frequencies at which cetaceans communicate," the study said.&nbsp;

It argued that more research was required to assess the risk deep-sea mining could pose to large marine mammals. Supporters of deep-sea mining, meanwhile, said it would lessen the need for large mining operations on land, which are often unpopular with host communities. &nbsp;

The Reuters report on Tuesday said that the ISA might approve deep-sea mining for international waters as soon as this summer with leaders from France, Fiji, Canada and Germany expressing concerns about the practice.&nbsp;

Previous research on ocean noise showed that whales could suffer negative effects from deep-sea mining. Citing another study, the news agency reported that man-made noise could increase the risk of humpback whale mothers being separated from their calves as their normal vocalisations are quiet.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Metals Company said it was studying acoustic data collected over three years with independent researchers to determine what the true impact could be on whales. According to a statement, the company's environmental manager Dr Michael Clark said the Greenpeace study was purely speculative, based upon zero in-field data and funded by the industry's most vocal opponent.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A study published on Tuesday (February 14) said that the noise produced by mining seabed for nickel, cobalt and other metals for green energy transition could disrupt the ability of whales to navigate ocean depths and communicate with each other.

A study published on Tuesday (February 14) said that the noise produced by mining seabed for nickel, cobalt and other metals for green energy transition could disrupt the ability of whales to navigate ocean depths and communicate with each other. A report by the news agency Reuters said that rocks, as big as a potato, filled with battery metals blanket vast swathes of the ocean floor at depths of four to six kilometres. The report added that several companies proposed to vacuum nodules from the seabed and process their metals for use in batteries for electric vehicles (EVs). The Metals Company Inc and others were pushing ahead with plans to extract these nodules from the Clarion Clipperton Zone- an ocean region in the northern Pacific. The International Seabed Authority (ISA), a Jamaica-based United Nations (UN) body, granted 17 seabed mining exploration licences in the zone. Tuesday's study, published in the Frontiers in Marine Science and funded by Umweltstiftung Greenpeace, said that 22-30 cetacean species, including endangered blue whales, live in the area. "The sounds produced from mining operations, including from remotely operated vehicles on the sea floor, overlap with the frequencies at which cetaceans communicate," the study said. It argued that more research was required to assess the risk deep-sea mining could pose to large marine mammals. Supporters of deep-sea mining, meanwhile, said it would lessen the need for large mining operations on land, which are often unpopular with host communities. The Reuters report on Tuesday said that the ISA might approve deep-sea mining for international waters as soon as this summer with leaders from France, Fiji, Canada and Germany expressing concerns about the practice. Previous research on ocean noise showed that whales could suffer negative effects from deep-sea mining. Citing another study, the news agency reported that man-made noise could increase the risk of humpback whale mothers being separated from their calves as their normal vocalisations are quiet. Meanwhile, the Metals Company said it was studying acoustic data collected over three years with independent researchers to determine what the true impact could be on whales. According to a statement, the company's environmental manager Dr Michael Clark said the Greenpeace study was purely speculative, based upon zero in-field data and funded by the industry's most vocal opponent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Study shows deep-sea mining could disrupt a whale's ability to communicate

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres sounded another ominous warning and said that a mass exodus "on a biblical scale" was possible around the world due to rising sea levels and climate change. He said that as low-lying areas get submerged, people will have to migrate to save their lives. Guterres called for legal frameworks to be implemented in preparation for a refugee crisis.&nbsp;"The danger is especially acute for nearly 900 million people who live in coastal zones at low elevations — that's one out of ten people on Earth," Antonio Guterres told the UN Security Council.

"Low-lying communities and entire countries could disappear forever... We would witness a mass exodus of entire populations on a biblical scale," he said.&nbsp;It is not only the small island states that are at risk as sea levels rise, he added.

Guterres said that countries such as Bangladesh, China, India and the Netherlands will face the danger along with others across the world. He added that "mega-cities on every continent will face serious impacts".

The UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) says sea levels rose by 15-25 centimetres (6-10 inches) between 1900 and 2018.

If the world warms by just two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) compared to the pre-industrial era, then those levels will rise again by 43 centimetres by the year 2100. But, if it warms by three or four degrees Celsius, sea levels could rise by as much as 84 centimetres, the IPCC says.

Guterres said that the problem must be addressed "across legal and human rights frameworks"

Rising sea levels mean&nbsp;shrinking land mass, he said, which could drive possible disputes over land and maritime space.&nbsp;

"The current legal regime must look to the future and address any gaps in existing frameworks," including in international refugee law, he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres sounded another ominous warning and said that a mass exodus "on a biblical scale" was possible around the world due to rising sea levels and climate change.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres sounded another ominous warning and said that a mass exodus "on a biblical scale" was possible around the world due to rising sea levels and climate change. He said that as low-lying areas get submerged, people will have to migrate to save their lives. Guterres called for legal frameworks to be implemented in preparation for a refugee crisis. "The danger is especially acute for nearly 900 million people who live in coastal zones at low elevations — that's one out of ten people on Earth," Antonio Guterres told the UN Security Council. "Low-lying communities and entire countries could disappear forever... We would witness a mass exodus of entire populations on a biblical scale," he said. It is not only the small island states that are at risk as sea levels rise, he added. Guterres said that countries such as Bangladesh, China, India and the Netherlands will face the danger along with others across the world. He added that "mega-cities on every continent will face serious impacts". The UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) says sea levels rose by 15-25 centimetres (6-10 inches) between 1900 and 2018. If the world warms by just two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) compared to the pre-industrial era, then those levels will rise again by 43 centimetres by the year 2100. But, if it warms by three or four degrees Celsius, sea levels could rise by as much as 84 centimetres, the IPCC says. Guterres said that the problem must be addressed "across legal and human rights frameworks" Rising sea levels mean shrinking land mass, he said, which could drive possible disputes over land and maritime space. "The current legal regime must look to the future and address any gaps in existing frameworks," including in international refugee law, he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN chief warns of exodus on ‘biblical’ scale around the world due to rising sea levels

UN relief chief Martin Griffiths said that the death toll of the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria may increase to&nbsp;50,000.&nbsp;On Saturday, Griffiths visited the southern city of Kahramanmaras in Turkey, which was the epicentre of the first earthquake of 7.8-magnitude that upturned the lives of millions in Monday's pre-dawn hours.&nbsp;Speaking to Sky News, Griffiths said, “I think it is difficult to estimate precisely as we need to get under the rubble but I'm sure it will double or more. We haven't really begun to count the number of dead.”

According to officials, the death toll currently stands at 34,000. Since six days have passed, there is less probability of people under the debris being found alive.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/48-arrested-in-turkey-for-looting-defrauding-quake-hit-victims-561022">48 arrested in Turkey for looting, defrauding quake-hit victims</a>

<h2>Police detain around 130 contractors over collapsed buildings</h2>

According to the state media, police in quake-hit Turkey have detained around 130&nbsp;contractors after multiple buildings collapsed in the country's south-eastern provinces of Sanliurfa and Gaziantep.

As per the DHA news agency, the people taken into custody includes contractors. Around 6,000 buildings collapsed in the devastating earthquakes that hit the region on Monday, sparking anger in the public over the poor quality of construction.

Police officials are expected to detain more people after Turkey's Vice President Fuat Oktay on Saturday said that 113 arrest warrants have been issued by the prosecutors over the collapse&nbsp;of buildings.

One of the persons detained was a contractor for a collapsed building in Gaziantep, said the agency, adding that the police caught him in Istanbul.

A wave of investigations has been launched by the prosecutors in provinces which have been hit, including Kahramanmaras. The justice ministry has asked the prosecutors to set up special "earthquake crimes investigation offices" in the 10 provinces.

On Friday, another contractor was apprehended by the Turkish police after the high-rise luxury flats, he was associated with, had collapsed in Hatay province.

The police detained him at Istanbul airport when&nbsp;he was trying to flee the country, reports suggested.

<h2>Miracle rescues as toll climbs</h2>

On Saturday, an elderly woman and a two-month-old baby were rescued from the rubble. Thousands of rescue workers are still searching for survivors in flattened neighbourhoods even as the misery of the survivors escalates amid&nbsp;freezing&nbsp;weather. However, amid despair, loss and destruction, stories of miraculous survival continue to emerge.

The rescue workers found a two-month-old baby alive in the city of Antakya, 128 hours after the quake, reported state news agency Anadolu.

Meanwhile, families held each other tightly in grief, as a cotton field was transformed into a cemetery as countless bodies arrived for burial.

WATCH | WION speaks to volunteers in Damascus after deadly earthquake in Turkey, Syria

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<h2>Violence disrupts rescue operations</h2>

Meanwhile, outbreaks of violence in southern Turkey hampered the ongoing rescue operations to find survivors. The search operations were paused by the Austrian army and German rescuers on Saturday, because of fighting between unidentified groups.

Austrian army spokesperson Lt Col Pierre Kugelweis said that altercations between factions in the Hatay province forced the Austrian Forces Disaster Relief Unit's personnel to take shelter in a base camp along with other international organisations.

In a statement, Kugelweis said, “There is increasing aggression between factions in Turkey. The chances of saving a life bears no reasonable relation to the safety risk.”

Turkish Ministry of Defence confirmed that the rescue operation was resumed by Austria after protection was provided by the Turkish army.

Operations were also suspended by Germany’s Federal Agency for Technical Relief (TSW) and the German branch of the search and rescue group Isar, citing similar security concerns.

Isar spokesperson Stefan Heine said, “There are more and more reports of clashes between different factions, shots have also been fired.”

German rescue teams confirmed that the rescue work will be resumed as soon as the situation is declared safe by the Turkish authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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UN relief chief Martin Griffiths said that the death toll of the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria may increase to 50,000. On Saturday, Griffiths visited the southern city of Kahramanmaras in Turkey, which was the epicentre of the first earthquake of 7.

UN relief chief Martin Griffiths said that the death toll of the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria may increase to 50,000. On Saturday, Griffiths visited the southern city of Kahramanmaras in Turkey, which was the epicentre of the first earthquake of 7.8-magnitude that upturned the lives of millions in Monday's pre-dawn hours. Speaking to Sky News, Griffiths said, “I think it is difficult to estimate precisely as we need to get under the rubble but I'm sure it will double or more. We haven't really begun to count the number of dead.” According to officials, the death toll currently stands at 34,000. Since six days have passed, there is less probability of people under the debris being found alive. ALSO READ | 48 arrested in Turkey for looting, defrauding quake-hit victims Police detain around 130 contractors over collapsed buildings According to the state media, police in quake-hit Turkey have detained around 130 contractors after multiple buildings collapsed in the country's south-eastern provinces of Sanliurfa and Gaziantep. As per the DHA news agency, the people taken into custody includes contractors. Around 6,000 buildings collapsed in the devastating earthquakes that hit the region on Monday, sparking anger in the public over the poor quality of construction. Police officials are expected to detain more people after Turkey's Vice President Fuat Oktay on Saturday said that 113 arrest warrants have been issued by the prosecutors over the collapse of buildings. One of the persons detained was a contractor for a collapsed building in Gaziantep, said the agency, adding that the police caught him in Istanbul. A wave of investigations has been launched by the prosecutors in provinces which have been hit, including Kahramanmaras. The justice ministry has asked the prosecutors to set up special "earthquake crimes investigation offices" in the 10 provinces. On Friday, another contractor was apprehended by the Turkish police after the high-rise luxury flats, he was associated with, had collapsed in Hatay province. The police detained him at Istanbul airport when he was trying to flee the country, reports suggested. Miracle rescues as toll climbs On Saturday, an elderly woman and a two-month-old baby were rescued from the rubble. Thousands of rescue workers are still searching for survivors in flattened neighbourhoods even as the misery of the survivors escalates amid freezing weather. However, amid despair, loss and destruction, stories of miraculous survival continue to emerge. The rescue workers found a two-month-old baby alive in the city of Antakya, 128 hours after the quake, reported state news agency Anadolu. Meanwhile, families held each other tightly in grief, as a cotton field was transformed into a cemetery as countless bodies arrived for burial. WATCH | WION speaks to volunteers in Damascus after deadly earthquake in Turkey, Syria Violence disrupts rescue operations Meanwhile, outbreaks of violence in southern Turkey hampered the ongoing rescue operations to find survivors. The search operations were paused by the Austrian army and German rescuers on Saturday, because of fighting between unidentified groups. Austrian army spokesperson Lt Col Pierre Kugelweis said that altercations between factions in the Hatay province forced the Austrian Forces Disaster Relief Unit's personnel to take shelter in a base camp along with other international organisations. In a statement, Kugelweis said, “There is increasing aggression between factions in Turkey. The chances of saving a life bears no reasonable relation to the safety risk.” Turkish Ministry of Defence confirmed that the rescue operation was resumed by Austria after protection was provided by the Turkish army. Operations were also suspended by Germany’s Federal Agency for Technical Relief (TSW) and the German branch of the search and rescue group Isar, citing similar security concerns. Isar spokesperson Stefan Heine said, “There are more and more reports of clashes between different factions, shots have also been fired.” German rescue teams confirmed that the rescue work will be resumed as soon as the situation is declared safe by the Turkish authorities. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkey earthquake: 130 contractors detained over collapsed buildings; UN says toll may reach 50,000

Demanding world aids there is Minister of Trade, Amro Salem, seeks humanitarian assistance from around the world. Speaking to our correspondent, Ghadi Francis, the Interior Minister said that the rescue authorities are coordinating with the government and they are providing the people with the required assistance.

Syria's Trade Minister speaks to WION on Turkey-Syria earthquakes

The Syrian government approves the delivery of humanitarian aid to areas outside its control in the quake-hit rebel-held northwest of the country. Cabinet, however, says that the international committee of the red cross and the Syrian red crescent with the help of the united nations should supervise the aid distribution.

Syria allows aid delivery to rebel-hit areas

The United Nations refugee agency said on Saturday (February 4) that seven Haitian migrants died in the Andean highlands of Peru as their efforts to cross into Bolivia were stymied by anti-government protests which have been going on since early December 2022. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Iris Bano Romero, a spokesperson for the refugee agency, said that six deaths, including that of a minor, occurred in Desaguadero town, news agency AFP reported. Romero added the seventh death occurred in the town of Juli.&nbsp;

Apart from these seven deaths, two other people were hospitalised with pneumonia since Thursday with one of them in critical condition, the UN official said. Romero further said that blockades erected due to the political crisis in Peru made life difficult for both locals and migrants, making it hard to obtain basics like food and fuel, or to pay for rent and other services.

Forty-eight people have been killed so far in the anti-government demonstrations in Peru. On Friday (February 3), the congressional committee blocked another bill to advance general elections to this year, which President Dina Boluarte hoped would quell the ongoing unrest.

Speaking to reporters, Alejandro Cavero, a right-wing member of Congress who sought to halt the bill, said that he raised parliamentary objections in a meeting of the Constitutional Committee before the bill could even be debated.

"The regulations of Congress clearly stipulate that a matter that has already been shelved cannot be discussed again in the committee until the next legislative session," Cavero, a member of the committee said.&nbsp;

A day later, a Roman Catholic Cardinal voiced dismay that Congress declined to advance elections to defuse the unrest. "It hurts our souls that they have (not acted on) a proposal to move up elections," Cardinal Pedro Barreto said on Saturday (February 4).&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations refugee agency said on Saturday (February 4) that seven Haitian migrants died in the Andean highlands of Peru as their efforts to cross into Bolivia were stymied by anti-government protests which have been going on since early December 2022.

The United Nations refugee agency said on Saturday (February 4) that seven Haitian migrants died in the Andean highlands of Peru as their efforts to cross into Bolivia were stymied by anti-government protests which have been going on since early December 2022. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Iris Bano Romero, a spokesperson for the refugee agency, said that six deaths, including that of a minor, occurred in Desaguadero town, news agency AFP reported. Romero added the seventh death occurred in the town of Juli. Apart from these seven deaths, two other people were hospitalised with pneumonia since Thursday with one of them in critical condition, the UN official said. Romero further said that blockades erected due to the political crisis in Peru made life difficult for both locals and migrants, making it hard to obtain basics like food and fuel, or to pay for rent and other services. Forty-eight people have been killed so far in the anti-government demonstrations in Peru. On Friday (February 3), the congressional committee blocked another bill to advance general elections to this year, which President Dina Boluarte hoped would quell the ongoing unrest. Speaking to reporters, Alejandro Cavero, a right-wing member of Congress who sought to halt the bill, said that he raised parliamentary objections in a meeting of the Constitutional Committee before the bill could even be debated. "The regulations of Congress clearly stipulate that a matter that has already been shelved cannot be discussed again in the committee until the next legislative session," Cavero, a member of the committee said. A day later, a Roman Catholic Cardinal voiced dismay that Congress declined to advance elections to defuse the unrest. "It hurts our souls that they have (not acted on) a proposal to move up elections," Cardinal Pedro Barreto said on Saturday (February 4). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN agency says seven Haitian migrants died while waiting to leave Peru, blames protests

As the status of women in Afghanistan continues to become worse in the absence of basic rights, the highest-ranking woman at the United Nations urged the Muslim countries on Wednesday (January 26) to help the Taliban to move from the 13th century to the 21st.&nbsp;Amina Mohammed, the deputy secretary-general said at a news conference that she used everything in her "toolbox" during meetings with Taliban ministers to try to reverse their crackdown on Afghan women and girls.&nbsp;

Amina, who is a former Nigerian Cabinet minister, also said that the foreign minister and a deputy prime minister were among four Taliban ministers, who spoke "off one script" during meetings with her delegation last week.&nbsp;

As reported by the news agency The Associated Press, she said that the officials tried to underline what they claim they have done. They call it their effort to create a safe environment for women. She said, "Their definition of protection would be, I would say, ours of oppression."

Ahead of her visit, Amina raised concerns to Taliban officials in Kabul and the southern city of Kandahar over the administration's orders restricting women from work and education.&nbsp;

During the press conference, Mohammed said her delegation, including the head of UN Women, pushed back against the Taliban.&nbsp;

She said, "We reminded them that in humanitarian principles, non-discrimination was a key part … and that they were wiping out women from the workplace."&nbsp;

Mohammed weighed in on a range of issues such as lawlessness, Taliban's attempt to get global recognition, etc. She said it is important for the UN and its partners to work more in some 20 Afghan provinces that are more forward-leaning.&nbsp;

"A lot of what we have to deal with is how we travel the Taliban from the 13th century to the 21st. That's a journey. So it’s not just overnight," she said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the status of women in Afghanistan continues to become worse in the absence of basic rights, the highest-ranking woman at the United Nations urged the Muslim countries on Wednesday (January 26) to help the Taliban to move from the 13th century to the 21st.

As the status of women in Afghanistan continues to become worse in the absence of basic rights, the highest-ranking woman at the United Nations urged the Muslim countries on Wednesday (January 26) to help the Taliban to move from the 13th century to the 21st. Amina Mohammed, the deputy secretary-general said at a news conference that she used everything in her "toolbox" during meetings with Taliban ministers to try to reverse their crackdown on Afghan women and girls. Amina, who is a former Nigerian Cabinet minister, also said that the foreign minister and a deputy prime minister were among four Taliban ministers, who spoke "off one script" during meetings with her delegation last week. As reported by the news agency The Associated Press, she said that the officials tried to underline what they claim they have done. They call it their effort to create a safe environment for women. She said, "Their definition of protection would be, I would say, ours of oppression." Ahead of her visit, Amina raised concerns to Taliban officials in Kabul and the southern city of Kandahar over the administration's orders restricting women from work and education. During the press conference, Mohammed said her delegation, including the head of UN Women, pushed back against the Taliban. She said, "We reminded them that in humanitarian principles, non-discrimination was a key part … and that they were wiping out women from the workplace." Mohammed weighed in on a range of issues such as lawlessness, Taliban's attempt to get global recognition, etc. She said it is important for the UN and its partners to work more in some 20 Afghan provinces that are more forward-leaning. "A lot of what we have to deal with is how we travel the Taliban from the 13th century to the 21st. That's a journey. So it’s not just overnight," she said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Highest-ranking woman at UN urges Muslims to help Taliban move from ‘13th century to 21st’

A senior UN official was informed by the Taliban ministers that they will probably sketch new guidelines to permit women in Afghanistan to work in a few humanitarian operations.&nbsp;While speaking to the BBC, Martin Griffiths said that he had received "encouraging responses" from various Taliban ministers while holding talks with them in Kabul, even though the government has not yet reversed the ban imposed on Afghan women working in NGOs.&nbsp;

Since the women in Afghanistan play an important role in delivering aid, concerns have&nbsp; been raised that the ban is endangering the country's life-saving humanitarian operations.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-freezing-cold-temperatures-kills-at-least-124-people-taliban-confirms-555824">Afghanistan: Freezing cold has killed at least 124 people, confirm Taliban</a>

"It's worth remembering that, this year, Afghanistan is the biggest humanitarian aid programme in the world ever," said UN's Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Griffiths in Kabul.

Griffiths held back-to-back meetings with senior leaders of the Taliban government in Kabul and discussed the recent ban imposed on women in Afghanistan from working with NGOs.

"If women do not work in humanitarian operations, we do not reach, we do not count, the women and girls we need to listen to. In all humanitarian operations around the world, women and girls are the most vulnerable,” Griffiths said.&nbsp;

Hinting at positive development in future, he said that it looked like the Taliban ministers are “listening” and that “they told me they will be issuing new guidelines in due course which I hope will help us reinforce the role of women".

He also highlighted "a consistent pattern of Taliban leaders presenting us with exceptions, exemptions, and authorisations for women to work".&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Dog honoured for sniffing out Taliban bombs

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The Taliban government, which came to power in August 2021, had last month imposed a ban on women aid workers after banning girls from studying in university and high school in March.&nbsp;

Griffiths said that the operations of the United Nations would continue in Afghanistan, however, they are facing the concern of international donors not willing to commit big financial cost of aid which is approximately $4.6 billion a year.

"I lose sleep about this, I really do," he said, adding that, in the coming weeks, he would hold talks with donors to make them understand why Afghanistan requires help during the humanitarian crisis as 28 million people require aid and around 6 million are on the verge of famine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A senior UN official was informed by the Taliban ministers that they will probably sketch new guidelines to permit women in Afghanistan to work in a few humanitarian operations.

A senior UN official was informed by the Taliban ministers that they will probably sketch new guidelines to permit women in Afghanistan to work in a few humanitarian operations. While speaking to the BBC, Martin Griffiths said that he had received "encouraging responses" from various Taliban ministers while holding talks with them in Kabul, even though the government has not yet reversed the ban imposed on Afghan women working in NGOs. Since the women in Afghanistan play an important role in delivering aid, concerns have been raised that the ban is endangering the country's life-saving humanitarian operations. ALSO READ | Afghanistan: Freezing cold has killed at least 124 people, confirm Taliban "It's worth remembering that, this year, Afghanistan is the biggest humanitarian aid programme in the world ever," said UN's Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Griffiths in Kabul. Griffiths held back-to-back meetings with senior leaders of the Taliban government in Kabul and discussed the recent ban imposed on women in Afghanistan from working with NGOs. "If women do not work in humanitarian operations, we do not reach, we do not count, the women and girls we need to listen to. In all humanitarian operations around the world, women and girls are the most vulnerable,” Griffiths said. Hinting at positive development in future, he said that it looked like the Taliban ministers are “listening” and that “they told me they will be issuing new guidelines in due course which I hope will help us reinforce the role of women". He also highlighted "a consistent pattern of Taliban leaders presenting us with exceptions, exemptions, and authorisations for women to work". WATCH | Gravitas: Dog honoured for sniffing out Taliban bombs The Taliban government, which came to power in August 2021, had last month imposed a ban on women aid workers after banning girls from studying in university and high school in March. Griffiths said that the operations of the United Nations would continue in Afghanistan, however, they are facing the concern of international donors not willing to commit big financial cost of aid which is approximately $4.6 billion a year. "I lose sleep about this, I really do," he said, adding that, in the coming weeks, he would hold talks with donors to make them understand why Afghanistan requires help during the humanitarian crisis as 28 million people require aid and around 6 million are on the verge of famine. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taliban to draw fresh guidelines for allowing Afghan women in aid work, says UN official

The United Nations issued an apology after some of its officials were seen posing in front of the Taliban flag in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The world body called it a "significant lapse in judgement". A group of UN personnel were in Kabul to address the ban on women aid workers in the country.&nbsp;

The UN revealed on Friday that Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed made a rare visit to the southern part of the nation and expressed concerns to Taliban officials in Kandahar over violations of women's rights.&nbsp;

Amina was joined by Sima Bahous, who is the executive director of UN Women, and Khaled Khiari, the assistant secretary general for political affairs.&nbsp;

UN was alarmed by the recent decisions made by the Taliban regarding women and their basic rights. While Amina was in Kabul as part of a series of meetings that had included stops in Turkey, Qatar and Pakistan to discuss the status of women in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

However, the issue regarding the photo was highlighted when the head of foreign relations for the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan (NRF), Ali Maisam Nazary, tweeted it.&nbsp;

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> personnel in Kabul taking a photo w/ a terrorist group’s flag brings the United Nation’s impartiality &amp; integrity into question. We kindly ask <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@antonioguterres</a> to investigate this matter &amp; for <a href="https://twitter.com/UNAMAnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNAMAnews</a> to prevent such insensitive actions that can tarnish its reputation. <a href="https://t.co/rA187OeG9T">pic.twitter.com/rA187OeG9T</a>
— Ali Maisam Nazary (@alinazary) <a href="https://twitter.com/alinazary/status/1616142708875366400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Nazary in his tweet wrote that the UN personnel in Kabul taking a photo with a "terrorist group's flag brings the United Nation's impartiality &amp; integrity into question".&nbsp;

"We kindly ask @antonioguterres to investigate this matter &amp; for @UNAMAnews to prevent such insensitive actions that can tarnish its reputation," Nazary added.&nbsp;

After social media outrage, deputy spokesperson for secretary-general Antonio Guterres, Farhan Haq, issued an apology.&nbsp;

Haq told reporters on Friday: "That photo should never have been taken. It clearly shows a significant lapse in judgment. It was a mistake and we apologise for it. And in terms of that, I believe the supervisor for these officers has spoken to them on this."&nbsp;

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The United Nations issued an apology after some of its officials were seen posing in front of the Taliban flag in Afghanistan. The world body called it a "significant lapse in judgement".

The United Nations issued an apology after some of its officials were seen posing in front of the Taliban flag in Afghanistan. The world body called it a "significant lapse in judgement". A group of UN personnel were in Kabul to address the ban on women aid workers in the country. The UN revealed on Friday that Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed made a rare visit to the southern part of the nation and expressed concerns to Taliban officials in Kandahar over violations of women's rights. Amina was joined by Sima Bahous, who is the executive director of UN Women, and Khaled Khiari, the assistant secretary general for political affairs. UN was alarmed by the recent decisions made by the Taliban regarding women and their basic rights. While Amina was in Kabul as part of a series of meetings that had included stops in Turkey, Qatar and Pakistan to discuss the status of women in Afghanistan. However, the issue regarding the photo was highlighted when the head of foreign relations for the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan (NRF), Ali Maisam Nazary, tweeted it. The @UN personnel in Kabul taking a photo w/ a terrorist group’s flag brings the United Nation’s impartiality & integrity into question. We kindly ask @antonioguterres to investigate this matter & for @UNAMAnews to prevent such insensitive actions that can tarnish its reputation. pic.twitter.com/rA187OeG9T — Ali Maisam Nazary (@alinazary) January 19, 2023 × Nazary in his tweet wrote that the UN personnel in Kabul taking a photo with a "terrorist group's flag brings the United Nation's impartiality & integrity into question". "We kindly ask @antonioguterres to investigate this matter & for @UNAMAnews to prevent such insensitive actions that can tarnish its reputation," Nazary added. After social media outrage, deputy spokesperson for secretary-general Antonio Guterres, Farhan Haq, issued an apology. Haq told reporters on Friday: "That photo should never have been taken. It clearly shows a significant lapse in judgment. It was a mistake and we apologise for it. And in terms of that, I believe the supervisor for these officers has spoken to them on this." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN apologises after officials pose in front of Taliban flag, calls it 'lapse in judgement'

The Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Saturday (January 14) that overturning restrictions against women is not a priority,&nbsp;weeks after it passed two orders banning university education for women and banning women from working for aid groups. The Taliban said that it would not permit any acts which violate Islamic law and the concerns regarding the restrictions will be dealt with according to the established rule of the Islamic Emirate in the country, a report by Khama Press said on Sunday. In a statement, the Taliban's chief spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid said the Taliban tries to regulate all matters "in accordance with the Islamic Sharia and the ruling government cannot allow act against the Sharia" in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Mujahid also asked Afghanistan's partners and international aid organisations to understand the religious demands in the country and avoid tying humanitarian aid to politics, the Khama Press report added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/oic-to-send-delegation-to-afghanistan-to-discuss-womens-rights-552543">OIC to send delegation to Afghanistan to discuss women’s rights with Taliban</a>

After taking over Afghanistan in August 2021, the Taliban imposed several restrictions on females including restricting their freedom of movement, barring girls from attending secondary schools, colleges and universities, excluding women from most areas of the workforce and also banning them from using parks, gyms and public bath houses. The latest two orders of the administration to suspend university education and ban working for aid groups have only worsened the situation for women in the country.&nbsp;

Global governments and rights groups have severely condemned the restrictions, urging the Taliban to reverse them. However, the Islamic Emirate remains defiant.&nbsp;

On Friday, the United States pushed the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to adopt a resolution to reverse the ban on Afghan women working for aid groups or attending universities and high schools. The council held a meeting on this day to discuss the decisions taken by the Taliban, and a group of diplomats told the news agency Reuters that the US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the security council that given the gravity of the situation, it should unanimously adopt a resolution to condemn the bans and call for an immediate reversal.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-why-is-the-world-neglecting-afghan-women-552725">Exclusive: 'Why is the world neglecting Afghan women?'</a>

Before Friday's meeting, 11 UNSC members including the US, issued a joint statement urging the Taliban to reverse all oppressive measures against females.

Separately, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) executive director Catherine Russell described the Islamic Emirate's ban on women aid workers as both wrong and dangerous and pointed out that without them, lives will be lost, and children will die, Reuters reported. Russell said UNICEF was reviewing the impact of the ban on its work and as the situation evolves, it will have to make difficult decisions as to which activities can continue, and which must be suspended.

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The Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Saturday (January 14) that overturning restrictions against women is not a priority, weeks after it passed two orders banning university education for women and banning women from working for aid groups.

The Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Saturday (January 14) that overturning restrictions against women is not a priority, weeks after it passed two orders banning university education for women and banning women from working for aid groups. The Taliban said that it would not permit any acts which violate Islamic law and the concerns regarding the restrictions will be dealt with according to the established rule of the Islamic Emirate in the country, a report by Khama Press said on Sunday. In a statement, the Taliban's chief spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid said the Taliban tries to regulate all matters "in accordance with the Islamic Sharia and the ruling government cannot allow act against the Sharia" in Afghanistan. Mujahid also asked Afghanistan's partners and international aid organisations to understand the religious demands in the country and avoid tying humanitarian aid to politics, the Khama Press report added. ALSO READ | OIC to send delegation to Afghanistan to discuss women’s rights with Taliban After taking over Afghanistan in August 2021, the Taliban imposed several restrictions on females including restricting their freedom of movement, barring girls from attending secondary schools, colleges and universities, excluding women from most areas of the workforce and also banning them from using parks, gyms and public bath houses. The latest two orders of the administration to suspend university education and ban working for aid groups have only worsened the situation for women in the country. Global governments and rights groups have severely condemned the restrictions, urging the Taliban to reverse them. However, the Islamic Emirate remains defiant. On Friday, the United States pushed the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to adopt a resolution to reverse the ban on Afghan women working for aid groups or attending universities and high schools. The council held a meeting on this day to discuss the decisions taken by the Taliban, and a group of diplomats told the news agency Reuters that the US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the security council that given the gravity of the situation, it should unanimously adopt a resolution to condemn the bans and call for an immediate reversal. ALSO READ | Exclusive: 'Why is the world neglecting Afghan women?' Before Friday's meeting, 11 UNSC members including the US, issued a joint statement urging the Taliban to reverse all oppressive measures against females. Separately, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) executive director Catherine Russell described the Islamic Emirate's ban on women aid workers as both wrong and dangerous and pointed out that without them, lives will be lost, and children will die, Reuters reported. Russell said UNICEF was reviewing the impact of the ban on its work and as the situation evolves, it will have to make difficult decisions as to which activities can continue, and which must be suspended. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taliban say overturning restrictions against Afghan women, not a priority: Report

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wants to visit the United Nations (UN) to address a high-level meeting of the 193-member General Assembly on the eve of the first anniversary of Russia's February 24 offensive, a senior foreign official from&nbsp;Ukraine's foreign ministry told news agency Associated Press on Friday (January 13). Ukraine's first deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova said that President Zelensky would want to come to the UN, adding he has a will or intention to come. “But it’s still a question if there will be a security situation that will allow him (Zelensky) to come, Dzhaparova added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-praises-wagner-forces-ukraine-denies-moscows-claim-of-soledar-liberation-552470">Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation'</a>

The first deputy foreign minister said that Ukraine would like to see the General Assembly adopt one of the two resolutions that President Zelensky wants to be approved on the eve of the anniversary of the Russian offensive. She added the government is consulting with its partners on the two measures,&nbsp;one that would support Zelensky's10-point peace formula and the second that would establish a tribunal to prosecute crimes of aggression, which would enable Russia to be held accountable for its offensive, the Associated Press report said.&nbsp;

Sergiy Kyslytsya,&nbsp;the Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the UN,&nbsp;said the General Assembly has already scheduled a debate on the war on February 23. This would be followed by a ministerial meeting of the Security Council the next day. Last month, Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba told the Associated Press that his government wanted a peace summit in the UN by the end of February with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as mediator. However, Kuleba did not anticipate Moscow taking part.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH | Ukraine denies to Russia's claim, says severe fighting in Soledar

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First deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova said on Friday that a summit was under discussion and stressed the fact that it was not a negotiation. On the other hand, Ukraine's UN ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya said he did not think that Russian President Vladimir Putin would allow anyone to attend a summit as it did not go along with his plan that Moscow's territorial gains were non-negotiable, the report added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-appoints-new-commander-to-lead-ukraine-invasion-sacking-general-armageddon-551715">Putin appoints new commander to lead Ukraine invasion, demoting 'General Armageddon'</a>

If Volodymyr Zelensky does visit the UN on the eve of the anniversary of the offensive, it will be his second trip outside Ukraine since the war started. Last month, he visited the United States to meet President Joe Biden and members of Congress. Zelensky thanked the US for its support while Joe Biden promised him that Ukraine will never stand alone. Biden pledged that his government would lend its support against "Russian aggression" for "as long as it takes."

In the latest news on the war, missiles struck key infrastructure facilities in Ukraine's capital city Kyiv on Saturday (January 14) with mayor Vitali Klitschko urging residents to stay in shelters, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wants to visit the United Nations (UN) to address a high-level meeting of the 193-member General Assembly on the eve of the first anniversary of Russia's February 24 offensive, a senior foreign official from Ukraine's foreign ministry told news agency Associated Press on Friday (January 13).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wants to visit the United Nations (UN) to address a high-level meeting of the 193-member General Assembly on the eve of the first anniversary of Russia's February 24 offensive, a senior foreign official from Ukraine's foreign ministry told news agency Associated Press on Friday (January 13). Ukraine's first deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova said that President Zelensky would want to come to the UN, adding he has a will or intention to come. “But it’s still a question if there will be a security situation that will allow him (Zelensky) to come, Dzhaparova added. ALSO READ | Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation' The first deputy foreign minister said that Ukraine would like to see the General Assembly adopt one of the two resolutions that President Zelensky wants to be approved on the eve of the anniversary of the Russian offensive. She added the government is consulting with its partners on the two measures, one that would support Zelensky's10-point peace formula and the second that would establish a tribunal to prosecute crimes of aggression, which would enable Russia to be held accountable for its offensive, the Associated Press report said. Sergiy Kyslytsya, the Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the UN, said the General Assembly has already scheduled a debate on the war on February 23. This would be followed by a ministerial meeting of the Security Council the next day. Last month, Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba told the Associated Press that his government wanted a peace summit in the UN by the end of February with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as mediator. However, Kuleba did not anticipate Moscow taking part. ALSO WATCH | Ukraine denies to Russia's claim, says severe fighting in Soledar × First deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova said on Friday that a summit was under discussion and stressed the fact that it was not a negotiation. On the other hand, Ukraine's UN ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya said he did not think that Russian President Vladimir Putin would allow anyone to attend a summit as it did not go along with his plan that Moscow's territorial gains were non-negotiable, the report added. ALSO READ | Putin appoints new commander to lead Ukraine invasion, demoting 'General Armageddon' If Volodymyr Zelensky does visit the UN on the eve of the anniversary of the offensive, it will be his second trip outside Ukraine since the war started. Last month, he visited the United States to meet President Joe Biden and members of Congress. Zelensky thanked the US for its support while Joe Biden promised him that Ukraine will never stand alone. Biden pledged that his government would lend its support against "Russian aggression" for "as long as it takes." In the latest news on the war, missiles struck key infrastructure facilities in Ukraine's capital city Kyiv on Saturday (January 14) with mayor Vitali Klitschko urging residents to stay in shelters, news agency AFP reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky wants to address UN General Assembly when Russian invasion completes one year

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has disbanded a fact-finding mission into an attack that took place in front line Ukrainian town of Olenivka, said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Thursday (January 5). This attack, which took place in the month of July killed prisoners held by Moscow-backed separatists. The fact-finding mission has been disbanded because the UN mission cannot deploy to the site. The investigation into the attack was requested by both, Russia and Ukraine. Secretary-General Guterres had announced the investigation in August last year.

On Thursday, Guterres also commented on a possible ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. He said he would welcome any truce in Ukraine during Orthodox Christmas “knowing that this will not replace a just peace in line with the U.N. Charter and international law,” according to Dujarric.

On Thursday, Kremlin said that Russian President Vladimir Putin had ordered a ceasefire on January 6 and 7.

The Kremlin said in a statement: "Taking into account the appeal of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill, I (Putin) instruct the defence minister of the Russian Federation to introduce from 12:00 (0900 GMT) on January 6, 2023 until 24:00 (2100 GMT) on January 7, 2023 a ceasefire along the entire line of contact between the sides in Ukraine."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-orders-ceasefire-in-ukraine-on-january-6-7-549807">Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy'</a>

In the order, Putin said that "proceeding from the fact that a large number of citizens professing Orthodoxy live in the areas of hostilities, we call on the Ukrainian side to declare a ceasefire and allow them to attend services on Christmas Eve, as well as on Christmas Day."&nbsp;

Ukraine has rejected the ceasefire offer calling it 'hypocrisy'.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has disbanded a fact-finding mission into an attack that took place in front line Ukrainian town of Olenivka, said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Thursday (January 5).

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has disbanded a fact-finding mission into an attack that took place in front line Ukrainian town of Olenivka, said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Thursday (January 5). This attack, which took place in the month of July killed prisoners held by Moscow-backed separatists. The fact-finding mission has been disbanded because the UN mission cannot deploy to the site. The investigation into the attack was requested by both, Russia and Ukraine. Secretary-General Guterres had announced the investigation in August last year. On Thursday, Guterres also commented on a possible ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. He said he would welcome any truce in Ukraine during Orthodox Christmas “knowing that this will not replace a just peace in line with the U.N. Charter and international law,” according to Dujarric. On Thursday, Kremlin said that Russian President Vladimir Putin had ordered a ceasefire on January 6 and 7. The Kremlin said in a statement: "Taking into account the appeal of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill, I (Putin) instruct the defence minister of the Russian Federation to introduce from 12:00 (0900 GMT) on January 6, 2023 until 24:00 (2100 GMT) on January 7, 2023 a ceasefire along the entire line of contact between the sides in Ukraine." Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy' In the order, Putin said that "proceeding from the fact that a large number of citizens professing Orthodoxy live in the areas of hostilities, we call on the Ukrainian side to declare a ceasefire and allow them to attend services on Christmas Eve, as well as on Christmas Day." Ukraine has rejected the ceasefire offer calling it 'hypocrisy'. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN discontinues investigation into Ukraine prison attack

A day after the United General Assembly passed a resolution asking the International Court of Justice its opinion on legal consequences of the Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territory. Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused the global body of distorting historical facts.

Israel slams, Palestinians welcome UN vote; Israel PM Netanyahu says, 'UN vote 'despicable' | WION

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (December 31) vehemently slammed a United Nations General Assembly vote that asked for a legal opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories.&nbsp;"The Jewish people are not occupiers in their own land nor occupiers in our eternal capital Jerusalem and no U.N. resolution can distort that historical truth," Netanyahu said in a video message, adding that Israel was not bound by the "despicable decision".

Netanyahu has assumed prime ministerial office just this week. He is heading a government which has set settlement expansion as a priority and includes parties who want to annex West Bank land where they are built.

Watch | Israel-Palestine conflict at United Nations, resolution against Israel at ICJ

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Palestinians seek occupied West Bank, along with Gaza and East Jerusalem for the Palestinian state. Israeli settlements in the West Bank are viewed by most countries as illegal. Israel strongly disputes this view citing historical and biblical ties to the land.

The Hague-based International Court of Justice (ICJ) also known as the World Court, is the top UN court dealing with disputes between states. Its rulings are binding, though the ICJ has no power to enforce them.

The U.N. General Assembly asked the ICJ to give an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel's "occupation, settlement and annexation ... including measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character and status of the Holy City of Jerusalem."

Members of Netanyahu's new government have pledged to bolster settlements with development plans, budgets and authorisation of dozens of outposts built without permits.

The cabinet includes newly created posts and restructured roles that grant some of those powers to pro-settler coalition partners, who ultimately aim to extend Israeli sovereignty to the West Bank.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (December 31) vehemently slammed a United Nations General Assembly vote that asked for a legal opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (December 31) vehemently slammed a United Nations General Assembly vote that asked for a legal opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories. "The Jewish people are not occupiers in their own land nor occupiers in our eternal capital Jerusalem and no U.N. resolution can distort that historical truth," Netanyahu said in a video message, adding that Israel was not bound by the "despicable decision". Netanyahu has assumed prime ministerial office just this week. He is heading a government which has set settlement expansion as a priority and includes parties who want to annex West Bank land where they are built. Watch | Israel-Palestine conflict at United Nations, resolution against Israel at ICJ × Palestinians seek occupied West Bank, along with Gaza and East Jerusalem for the Palestinian state. Israeli settlements in the West Bank are viewed by most countries as illegal. Israel strongly disputes this view citing historical and biblical ties to the land. The Hague-based International Court of Justice (ICJ) also known as the World Court, is the top UN court dealing with disputes between states. Its rulings are binding, though the ICJ has no power to enforce them. The U.N. General Assembly asked the ICJ to give an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel's "occupation, settlement and annexation ... including measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character and status of the Holy City of Jerusalem." Members of Netanyahu's new government have pledged to bolster settlements with development plans, budgets and authorisation of dozens of outposts built without permits. The cabinet includes newly created posts and restructured roles that grant some of those powers to pro-settler coalition partners, who ultimately aim to extend Israeli sovereignty to the West Bank. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Benjamin Netanyahu slams ‘despicable’ UN vote, says Israel not bound by it

Just two days after the new government was elected in Israel, the United Nations General Assembly asked the International Court of Justice to consider legal consequences for Israel over its occupation of Palestine territory.

Israel-Palestine conflict at United Nations, resolution against Israel at ICJ

The Group of Seven (G7) on Thursday (December 29) told the Taliban to 'urgently reverse' the ban on women aid workers in Afghanistan. Issuing a joint statement, the G7 foreign ministers said they are gravely concerned that the Taliban's reckless and dangerous order barring female employees of national and international NGOs from the workplace puts at risk millions of Afghans who depend on humanitarian assistance for their survival, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

The G7 pointed out that women are absolutely central to humanitarian and basic needs operations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-un-halts-time-critical-programmes-due-to-talibans-ban-on-female-aid-workers-547529">Afghanistan:&nbsp;UN halts 'time critical' programmes due to Taliban's ban on female aid workers</a>

"Unless they participate in aid delivery in Afghanistan, NGOs will be unable to reach the country’s most vulnerable people to provide food, medicine, winterization, and other materials and services they need to live," Thursday's statement added.&nbsp;

The group also said that the Taliban continued to demonstrate their contempt for the rights, freedoms and welfare of the people of Afghanistan, particularly women and girls.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH | UNSC denounces Taliban government's restrictions on women

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&nbsp;

The ban on women aid workers in Afghanistan comes days after the Taliban barred women from attending universities in the country. The Taliban said the move to ban women aid workers was justified because some of them had not adhered to the group's interpretation of the Islamic dress code for women.

The above decisions of the Taliban on women have been condemned globally.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-urges-taliban-government-to-end-terrible-restrictions-on-women-547139">United Nations urges Taliban government to end 'terrible' restrictions on women</a>

Before the G7, the United Nations had urged the Taliban to reverse the ban on women aid workers. "Millions of Afghans need humanitarian assistance and removing barriers is vital," the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said on Monday, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the UN said that some "time-critical" programmes in Afghanistan were temporarily stopped due to a lack of female staff. "Banning women from humanitarian work has immediate life-threatening consequences for all Afghans. Already, some time-critical programmes have had to stop temporarily due to lack of female staff," a joint statement read.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Group of Seven (G7) on Thursday (December 29) told the Taliban to 'urgently reverse' the ban on women aid workers in Afghanistan. Issuing a joint statement, the G7 foreign ministers said they are gravely concerned that the Taliban's reckless and dangerous order barring female employees of national and international NGOs from the workplace puts at risk millions of Afghans who depend on humanitarian assistance for their survival, news agency AFP reported.

The Group of Seven (G7) on Thursday (December 29) told the Taliban to 'urgently reverse' the ban on women aid workers in Afghanistan. Issuing a joint statement, the G7 foreign ministers said they are gravely concerned that the Taliban's reckless and dangerous order barring female employees of national and international NGOs from the workplace puts at risk millions of Afghans who depend on humanitarian assistance for their survival, news agency AFP reported. The G7 pointed out that women are absolutely central to humanitarian and basic needs operations. ALSO READ | Afghanistan: UN halts 'time critical' programmes due to Taliban's ban on female aid workers "Unless they participate in aid delivery in Afghanistan, NGOs will be unable to reach the country’s most vulnerable people to provide food, medicine, winterization, and other materials and services they need to live," Thursday's statement added. The group also said that the Taliban continued to demonstrate their contempt for the rights, freedoms and welfare of the people of Afghanistan, particularly women and girls. ALSO WATCH | UNSC denounces Taliban government's restrictions on women × The ban on women aid workers in Afghanistan comes days after the Taliban barred women from attending universities in the country. The Taliban said the move to ban women aid workers was justified because some of them had not adhered to the group's interpretation of the Islamic dress code for women. The above decisions of the Taliban on women have been condemned globally. ALSO READ | United Nations urges Taliban government to end 'terrible' restrictions on women Before the G7, the United Nations had urged the Taliban to reverse the ban on women aid workers. "Millions of Afghans need humanitarian assistance and removing barriers is vital," the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said on Monday, news agency Reuters reported. On Wednesday, the UN said that some "time-critical" programmes in Afghanistan were temporarily stopped due to a lack of female staff. "Banning women from humanitarian work has immediate life-threatening consequences for all Afghans. Already, some time-critical programmes have had to stop temporarily due to lack of female staff," a joint statement read. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Urgently reverse' ban on Afghan women aid workers: G7 tells Taliban

The United Nations urged the Taliban on Tuesday to remove the tough policies that impact the education of women and girls in Afghanistan. The UN rights chief spoke about the “terrible consequences” of the oppressive measures and asked the Taliban to reconsider them.

"No country can develop -- indeed survive -- socially and economically with half its population excluded," Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said.

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"These unfathomable restrictions placed on women and girls will not only increase the suffering of all Afghans but, I fear, pose a risk beyond Afghanistan's borders," he added according to AFP.

The Taliban announced that women could not work in non-governmental organisations anymore – just days after banning university education for women and secondary schooling for girls.

"I urge the de facto authorities to ensure the respect and protection of the rights of all women and girls -- to be seen, to be heard and to participate in and contribute to all aspects of the social, political and economic life of the country," said Turk when asked about the UN’s stance.

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Afghanistan has witnessed the closure of more than five NGOs since women were banned from working and Turk believes that it can cause a major crisis when it comes to the caregiving sector. It has also resulted in multiple foreign aid groups pulling out of the country in the past week.

"Women and girls cannot be denied their inherent rights," said Turk.

"Attempts by the de facto authorities to relegate them to silence and invisibility will not succeed."

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The United Nations urged the Taliban on Tuesday to remove the tough policies that impact the education of women and girls in Afghanistan. The UN rights chief spoke about the “terrible consequences” of the oppressive measures and asked the Taliban to reconsider them.

The United Nations urged the Taliban on Tuesday to remove the tough policies that impact the education of women and girls in Afghanistan. The UN rights chief spoke about the “terrible consequences” of the oppressive measures and asked the Taliban to reconsider them. "No country can develop -- indeed survive -- socially and economically with half its population excluded," Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said. Also read | Taiwan's extended conscription and 'loss of face' for Xi Jinping "These unfathomable restrictions placed on women and girls will not only increase the suffering of all Afghans but, I fear, pose a risk beyond Afghanistan's borders," he added according to AFP. The Taliban announced that women could not work in non-governmental organisations anymore – just days after banning university education for women and secondary schooling for girls. "I urge the de facto authorities to ensure the respect and protection of the rights of all women and girls -- to be seen, to be heard and to participate in and contribute to all aspects of the social, political and economic life of the country," said Turk when asked about the UN’s stance. WATCH | At least 185 Rohingya refugees arrive in Indonesia Afghanistan has witnessed the closure of more than five NGOs since women were banned from working and Turk believes that it can cause a major crisis when it comes to the caregiving sector. It has also resulted in multiple foreign aid groups pulling out of the country in the past week. "Women and girls cannot be denied their inherent rights," said Turk. "Attempts by the de facto authorities to relegate them to silence and invisibility will not succeed."

United Nations urges Taliban government to end 'terrible' restrictions on women

Ukraine asked for the exclusion of Russia from the United Nations Security Council amid the ongoing crisis. The statement from the Ukrainian authorities said that Russia "illegally occupies the seat of the USSR in the UN Security Council" since the fall of the Soviet Union back in 1991.

"Ukraine calls on the member states of the UN... to deprive the Russian Federation of its status as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and to exclude it from the UN as a whole."

"From a legal and political point of view, there can be only one conclusion: Russia is a usurper of the Soviet Union's seat in the UN Security Council," the Ukrainian defence ministry added.

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While the UN Security Council has 15 members in total, the veto power lies with the five permanent members. While most have taken a hard stance against the Russian invasion, China has continued to support Russia and even increased its trade relations with the Kremlin in the recent past.

Meanwhile, Russia said on Monday that it destroyed a Ukrainian drone at the Engels airfield – over 600 kms away from the border. Russian news agencies reported that three people were killed in the operation which was deemed to be the most intrusive attack to date from the Ukrainian side.

Russian President Vladimir Putin criticised the attack and said that the current offensive in Ukraine will help "unite the Russian people" and warned against Russia's "geopolitical opponents (of) aiming to tear apart Russia, the historical Russia".&nbsp; "Divide and conquer, that's what they have always sought to accomplish and are still seeking to do," Putin said in a television interview according to AFP.

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Ukraine asked for the exclusion of Russia from the United Nations Security Council amid the ongoing crisis. The statement from the Ukrainian authorities said that Russia "illegally occupies the seat of the USSR in the UN Security Council" since the fall of the Soviet Union back in 1991.

Ukraine asked for the exclusion of Russia from the United Nations Security Council amid the ongoing crisis. The statement from the Ukrainian authorities said that Russia "illegally occupies the seat of the USSR in the UN Security Council" since the fall of the Soviet Union back in 1991. "Ukraine calls on the member states of the UN... to deprive the Russian Federation of its status as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and to exclude it from the UN as a whole." "From a legal and political point of view, there can be only one conclusion: Russia is a usurper of the Soviet Union's seat in the UN Security Council," the Ukrainian defence ministry added. Also read | US winter storm kills 31; Buffalo, New York, battles crisis situation While the UN Security Council has 15 members in total, the veto power lies with the five permanent members. While most have taken a hard stance against the Russian invasion, China has continued to support Russia and even increased its trade relations with the Kremlin in the recent past. Meanwhile, Russia said on Monday that it destroyed a Ukrainian drone at the Engels airfield – over 600 kms away from the border. Russian news agencies reported that three people were killed in the operation which was deemed to be the most intrusive attack to date from the Ukrainian side. Russian President Vladimir Putin criticised the attack and said that the current offensive in Ukraine will help "unite the Russian people" and warned against Russia's "geopolitical opponents (of) aiming to tear apart Russia, the historical Russia". "Divide and conquer, that's what they have always sought to accomplish and are still seeking to do," Putin said in a television interview according to AFP.

Ukraine calls for Russia's exclusion from United Nations Security Council

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