UN Rights Chief, Volker Türk, Raises Concerns Over US Deportations

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has voiced serious concerns over the large-scale deportations of non-nationals from the United States. Particular alarm has been raised regarding the transfer of hundreds of individuals—many accused of gang affiliation—to a mega-prison in El Salvador, amid legal challenges and human rights concerns. Summary of Key […]

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Continental Africa News Brief | Business and Political Developments, Conflict and Humanitarian Crises – May 15, 2025

🇨🇩 Democratic Republic of Congo: Escalating Violence and Displacement In North Kivu’s Nyiragongo territory, escalating violence has forced hundreds of Rusayo tribal families from Kanzana and Kabale Katambi villages to flee toward Goma and Sake. Recent atrocities include the April 5 execution of 11 civilians during breakfast and the May 11–12 burning alive of four […]

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8 million teens in world’s wealthiest countries functionally illiterate: UNICEF

Comparing data from 2018 and 2022, UNICEF found that the pandemic worsened existing trends: children are underperforming in school, more likely to be overweight or obese, and generally less satisfied with their lives. This data sets a “worrying benchmark for children’s wellbeing,” said Bo Viktor Nylund, Director of UNICEF’s research office, Innocenti. UNICEF ranked the […]

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Chancellor Merz: Ceasefire Must Be Basis for Peace Talks in Ukraine, Urges Stronger EU Pressure on Russia

BERLIN — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine as a necessary foundation for meaningful political negotiations, reaffirming Germany’s commitment to international peacebuilding and multilateral diplomacy. Speaking alongside United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres at a joint press conference in Berlin on May 14, Chancellor Merz emphasized the urgency […]

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Türkiye Evolving and Emerging as Global Peace Diplomacy Hub, Says President Erdoğan

ANKARA — President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has declared Türkiye a central player in international peace diplomacy, emphasizing the country’s growing role as a sought-after mediator in both regional and global conflicts. Speaking to members of his ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) during a parliamentary group meeting, Erdoğan underscored Türkiye’s rising influence in global affairs. […]

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Pope Leo XIV Urges Release of Jailed Journalists, Calls for Responsible Journalism and Communication

VATICAN CITY — In his first formal address to the media since his election, Pope Leo XIV called for the release of imprisoned journalists who have been detained for “seeking and reporting the truth” and urged communicators worldwide to choose words that promote peace rather than division. Speaking in the Vatican’s Paul VI Audience Hall […]

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EU allocates €120 million in humanitarian aid for Latin America and the Caribbean in 2025

Several Latin American and Caribbean countries are grappling with humanitarian challenges, mainly due to the Venezuela crisis, natural disasters, and armed conflicts. The European Commission will provide €120 million in humanitarian aid this year to help the region’s most vulnerable. Part of this aid will also bolster disaster preparedness, vital due to the region’s exposure […]

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In Berlin, broad backing for UN peacekeeping as global threats mount

UN Secretary-General António Guterres meanwhile warned that peace operations are under growing strain and must adapt to meet today’s rising threats. The two-day conference on peacekeeping, hosted by the Government of Germany, brought together over 1,000 participants – including defence and foreign ministers – to reaffirm commitment to the UN’s flagship tool for maintaining peace […]

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FBI Honors Fallen Law Enforcement Officers, Including Two of Its Own, During National Police Week

As the nation commemorates National Police Week, the FBI joined law enforcement agencies across the country in solemn remembrance of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities. In a heartfelt tribute, FBI Director Kash Patel honored fallen officers and paid special recognition to two members of the FBI family who […]

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The Impact of USAID Funding Cuts on Africa: A Humanitarian Crisis in the Making

Introduction In early 2025, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) experienced a significant reduction in funding, leading to the cessation of numerous programs across Africa. This move has had profound implications for public health, food security, and humanitarian aid, particularly in regions already grappling with conflict and poverty.(Spotlight) Health Sector Disruptions One of […]

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