Zimbabwe Opposition Activists Freed After Five Months

On November 27, a Zimbabwean court sentenced Jameson Timba, interim leader of the opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC), and 34 others to suspended prison terms, after being convicted earlier in the week for participation in an unlawful gathering. Timba was sentenced to a suspended two-year prison term, while the other activists received lesser suspended […]

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OSCE Criticizes Excessive Force by Georgian Police During Peaceful Protests

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) has expressed grave concern over the actions of Georgian law enforcement in dispersing peaceful protests in Tbilisi. The condemnation follows reports of police using excessive force—including water cannons, pepper spray, and batons—against demonstrators, many of whom were protesting peacefully. In a statement released on November […]

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China and the U.S. Engage in Rare Prisoner Swap, Raising Diplomatic Signals

In a notable development in U.S.-China relations, three American nationals wrongfully detained in China have been released and returned to the United States as part of a prisoner exchange. The move, which coincides with the Thanksgiving holiday, is being closely scrutinized by diplomats and analysts alike, with some suggesting that it could signal China’s intentions […]

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Qatar Brokered Deal will see Nine Russian and Ukrainian Children Repatriated in Latest Humanitarian Exchange

In a significant development, nine children, who have been caught in the crossfire of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, will be returned to their respective families this week. This latest exchange of minors is part of a broader humanitarian effort facilitated by Qatar, which has played a pivotal role in mediating these repatriations. […]

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UN underlines solidarity with Ukraine 1,000 days into Russian invasion

The “grim milestone” fell as Ukraine fired long-range American-made missiles into Russia for the first time, according to media reports. ‘Not just numbers’ Conflict erupted in Ukraine over a decade ago following Russia’s occupation of Crimea in the east and escalated on 24 February 2022 with the full-scale assault on the country. The UN Resident […]

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Thailand: Cambodian Refugees Forcibly Returned

(Bangkok, November 29, 2024) – Thai authorities forcibly returned six Cambodian political opposition activists and a young child on November 25, 2024, putting them at risk of unfair trials and mistreatment in Cambodia, Human Rights Watch said today. Cambodian authorities should immediately drop the politically motivated charges against these refugees and an asylum seeker and […]

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Stories from the UN Archive: Beckham’s goals for children

Having previously supported UNICEF’s work during his illustrious playing career – at Manchester United, Real Madrid and elsewhere – as Goodwill Ambassador Mr. Beckham launched the 7 Fund for UNICEF. That unique partnership aimed to help children around the world – especially girls – break down barriers caused by bullying, violence, child marriage and missed […]

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International Women Human Rights Defenders Day

On International Women Human Rights Defenders Day, the United States recognizes the tireless efforts of women and girls who advocate for human rights and fundamental freedoms around the world. All over the world, women work to challenge systemic injustices and advocate for the rights of all. Women human rights defenders face an increased risk of […]

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Iranian Authorities Allegedly Sexually Assaulted Journalist

Prison officers allegedly sexually assaulted and harassed Vida Rabbani, an Iranian journalist and activist, during a body search at Evin Prison in Tehran on October 3, an informed source told Human Rights Watch in late November. Security forces arrested Rabbani in September 2022, during the nationwide protests sparked by Mahsa Jina Amini’s death while detained by […]

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UN rights office urges Russia to cease attacks on Ukraine’s energy grid as winter sets in

Spokesperson Jeremy Laurence said massive missile and drone attacks on the power network this week have heightened serious concerns about the plight of civilians facing a winter of hardship and misery.   Russia launched missile and long-range drone strikes on Thursday, which reportedly caused damage in at least 13 regions, in addition to the capital city, […]

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