Security Council: Russia and China veto resolution on Strait of Hormuz

Eleven countries voted in favour of the draft, which was vetoed by permanent members China and Russia while Colombia and Pakistan abstained.  The draft resolution sought to strongly encourage States interested in the use of commercial maritime routes in the Strait of Hormuz – which lies between Iran, Oman and the United Arab Emirates – and to “coordinate efforts” defensively, to contribute to ensuring the safety and security of navigation there, including the use of escorts for merchant and commercial […]

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At UN, Malala, Anne Hathaway call for action on women’s rights

The event blended reflection, celebration and urgency, highlighting both the progress made in advancing women’s rights and the growing challenges many women and girls face worldwide. The gathering in the General Assembly Hall brought together diplomats, advocates and activists, with speakers reminding the audience that progress on women’s rights has never come automatically – it […]

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Central African Republic enters ‘decisive’ phase after landmark elections

Briefing the Security Council on Wednesday, Special Representative Valentine Rugwabiza said the 28 December 2025 polls marked “an important milestone in the consolidation of the peace process and State authority.” The combined presidential, legislative, regional and municipal elections – including the first municipal polls since 1988 – represented “the most extensive electoral operations ever undertaken […]

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UN commission opens with focus on justice for women and girls

Taking place from 9 to 19 March, the Commission’s 70th session (CSW70) focuses on the priority theme ‘ensuring and strengthening access to justice for all women and girls,’ including by promoting inclusive legal systems, eliminating discriminatory laws and addressing structural barriers that prevent women from claiming their rights. A question of power Speaking at the […]

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New challenges bring increased risks in combating child sexual abuse, exploitation

“There is a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of these crimes,” Ms. Singhateh said. “We are also witnessing stronger international cooperation, more victim-centred approaches and deeper involvement from the private sector. However, despite these achievements, the scale and severity of abuses against children remain alarming and worrying.” Far too many children around the world are […]

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OceanEye: Reinforcing ocean observation and protection

  The ocean is essential to life on this planet. And yet, it is under more pressure than ever, from climate change to pollution to illegal fishing. The more information we have about the ocean, the better we can safeguard its vast natural heritage and protect the ocean and ourselves. At the 2026 European Ocean […]

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‘No one should be a hibakusha’: Young Japanese activist’s mission to share atomic bomb survivor stories

Suzuka Nakamura from the southern Japanese city of Nagasaki, which along with Hiroshima, was targeted by an atomic bomb at the end of the Second World War, is determined to create the museum to bring the stories of hibakusha (atomic bomb survivors) to communities far beyond those two cities.  Ms. Nakamura, whose grandmother was a […]

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Office of Public Affairs | Sex Trafficking Leader Pleads Guilty to Multiple Counts of Sex Trafficking

A Massachusetts woman pleaded guilty today for her role in conspiring with others and committing sex trafficking of two minors and one adult. According to court documents and evidence presented in court, Christy Parker, also known as “Lula,” 28, of Fall River, Massachusetts, used physical beatings, threats, intimidation, sleep deprivation, starvation and other means to […]

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Kosovo mission head warns ‘mistrust’ threatens post-election stability

Peter Due, Special Representative and Head of the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), told the Security Council during his first briefing inside the iconic chamber on Thursday that while the December 2025 polls featured broad participation, the momentum is being tested.  Speaking in New York, Mr. Due noted that the process of electing […]

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World News in Brief: Myanmar airstrikes worsen crisis, South Sudan fighting threatens Akobo, Afghan women shut out of justice

The warning came against the backdrop of reports of fresh airstrikes by the military on a trading junction in the central Magway region. According to media reports, more than 25 individuals were killed and 20 others wounded. “The humanitarian situation continues to worsen with each passing year due to ongoing conflict, recurrent disasters, and steady […]

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