The Deir Al-Balah Preparatory School, part of UNRWA’s network of 700 schools for Palestine refugees, now hosts a multitude of tents, replacing the once vibrant yard and classrooms where children enjoyed sports and play. Ayman Ibrahim Jouda, formerly a mathematics teacher, now assists displaced individuals, while Abdulrahman al-Shami, another educator, longs for a return to...
The situation in the Middle East, particularly the Israel-Palestine crisis, is described by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as “growing direr by the hour.” He emphasized the urgent need for a humanitarian ceasefire to alleviate suffering, facilitate aid delivery, and ensure the release of hostages. Guterres stressed the importance of protecting civilians and reiterated the necessity...
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for a sustained humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and the immediate release of all hostages amid the resumption of hostilities between Israel and Hamas. He urged Israel to avoid actions exacerbating the humanitarian situation and emphasized the need to protect civilians and infrastructure. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization urged Israel...
A group of independent UN human rights experts condemned the continued operation of the Guantánamo Bay detention facility in Cuba, labeling it a site of “unparalleled notoriety” and a stain on the US commitment to the rule of law. Despite forceful condemnation, the facility remains open, housing 39 detainees, most without trial. The experts called...
UN Secretary-General Mr. Guterres highlighted the importance of collaboration between the United Nations and regional organizations, particularly the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), in addressing global challenges. The CSTO, established in 2002, has expanded its role beyond defense to include diplomacy, counter-terrorism, and maintaining regional peace and security. The UN has recognized and welcomed the...
Following the volcanic eruption of Mount Nyiragongo in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, on May 22, 2021, UNICEF reports that over 150 children have been separated from their families, and more than 170 children are feared missing. Thousands fled the city, with some seeking refuge in Rwanda and others displaced within the DRC. UNICEF is...
The UNCTAD report highlights the severe economic toll on Palestine due to Israeli closures, restrictions, and military operations since 2000. The estimated cost amounts to $57.7 billion, significantly impacting development and poverty levels. The closure policy led to a drastic fall in living standards, with poverty rates projected to have been much lower without these...
The World Meteorological Organization’s report on the state of the global climate in 2019 highlights concerning trends, including increasing land and ocean heat, sea level rise, and melting ice, with significant impacts on various aspects of society. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warns that the world is far from meeting the targets set by the Paris...
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasizes the importance of making democracies more inclusive, innovative, and responsive to emerging challenges. He urges global efforts to invigorate democratic systems and values, addressing essential questions regarding the impact of migration, climate change, and new technologies on democracy. Guterres, whose personal history is intertwined with democracy, calls for collective commitment...
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasizes the absolute prohibition of torture and the ongoing need for action to eradicate it. He pays tribute to victims of torture, highlighting their right to justice, rehabilitation, and redress. The International Day in Support of Victims of Torture observed annually on June 26, commemorates the entry into force of the...
