Violence in eastern DR Congo has escalated, causing over 1.3 million people to flee their homes in two years, with the total number of internally displaced people in the region now at 5.7 million, according to the UNHCR. Lisa Schlein reports from Geneva on the devastating impact of the conflict.

The World Health Organization, commemorating World Tuberculosis Day, advocates for global efforts to eliminate tuberculosis, highlighting the disease's preventability and curability. Despite this, tuberculosis remains a leading infectious killer, with 1.3 million deaths and 10.6 million new cases in 2022. The WHO emphasizes the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment, as well as the development of new vaccines. A recent WHO study demonstrates the cost-effectiveness of TB screening and preventive treatment in Brazil, Georgia, Kenya, and South Africa. The organization also calls for increased investment in research and development for new TB vaccines, with the U.N. supporting this initiative.

The U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights has accused the Belarusian government of a campaign of violence and repression against political dissent. The report, presented by Christian Salazar Volkmann, is based on interviews and evidence from over 5,400 items and 229 submissions. It details human rights violations since the 2020 presidential elections, including torture, inhumane treatment, and politically motivated arrests. The 2020 re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko was widely criticized as unfair. The Belarusian ambassador to the U.N., Larysa Belskaya, denied the existence of political prisoners and accused Western governments of supporting activists against Belarus. Volkmann called for investigations into violations and accountability for perpetrators.

The World Health Organization warns that millions in conflict-driven health emergencies risk dying due to lack of humanitarian aid. WHO's director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, accuses Israel of blocking aid to Gaza, exacerbating health crises. Gaza faces severe disease outbreaks, with significant increases in respiratory infections and diarrhea among children. The WHO also highlights worsening conditions in Sudan and Ethiopia, where conflict and displacement hinder aid delivery. The Israeli agency COGAT disputes the blockade narrative, asserting that aid continues to flow into Gaza.

The study explores the therapeutic potential of parthenolide (PTL) for treating disseminated canine neoplasms, including histiocytic sarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, and mast cell tumors. PTL, known for inhibiting NF-kB signaling and altering cellular redox balance, induces dose-dependent apoptosis in canine cell lines and primary cells. It also depletes glutathione, generates reactive oxygen species, and synergizes with standard-of-care therapeutics. Preliminary data indicate that PTL extends survival time in a mouse model of disseminated canine histiocytic sarcoma, supporting further investigation and potential clinical trials in dogs, which may also benefit human cancer research.

The Global Refugee Forum in Geneva, attended by over 3,500 delegates, aims to find practical solutions for the 114 million forcibly displaced people worldwide. U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi and Jordan's King Abdullah II highlighted the urgent need for international cooperation and sustained humanitarian efforts, particularly in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, and Colombia. The forum underscores the disproportionate burden on low- and middle-income countries hosting the majority of refugees and calls for increased international support and long-term responsibility sharing.

Gaza's health system is in chaos amidst Israel's offensive against Hamas, with WHO officials reporting a reduction from 36 to 11 partially functioning hospitals. WHO representative Richard Peeperkorn, on a medical mission in Gaza, described the situation as a humanitarian disaster, with the health support system on the verge of collapse. The WHO's efforts to transfer patients and deliver supplies were obstructed by Israeli forces, and there are reports of health workers being harassed. Gaza's Health Ministry reports over 18,000 fatalities and nearly 50,000 injuries, with a significant impact on women and children. The health situation is critical, with a spike in respiratory infections and other diseases. Israel has announced the opening of crossings into Gaza to allow aid, following international criticism.

The United Nations is appealing for $46.4 billion to assist over 180 million people in 72 countries facing conflicts, climate emergencies, and economic collapses. Despite the increasing needs, international support is not keeping pace, with only $20 billion of the $56.7 billion needed for 2023 received. The U.N. has had to scale down aid, impacting millions in Afghanistan, Myanmar, Yemen, and Nigeria. The global climate crisis exacerbates humanitarian crises, with climate-related disasters affecting over 44 million people and causing over 18,000 deaths this year. The U.N. highlights the plight of those in climate-vulnerable areas, with a significant overlap between displacement and conflict. Humanitarians are commended for their efforts, but the lack of sufficient support has led to painful decisions and reduced aid.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has spoken out against the Israeli bombing campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, with shortages of food, water, and basic supplies. Christian Lindmeier, a WHO spokesperson, highlighted the dire conditions faced by civilians in Gaza, including children begging for water. Since the ceasefire ended on December 1, over 2,000 Palestinians have been killed, with UN agencies reporting that 70% of the victims are women and children. The UNRWA has warned that the conflict poses a real threat to international peace and security. WHO convoys carrying supplies have been stopped, and the health system in Gaza is described as weak. Lindmeier called for an immediate ceasefire.

The World Health Organization has condemned Israel's bombing campaign in Gaza, highlighting the severe humanitarian crisis with millions lacking basic necessities like food and water. WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier accused Israel of targeting innocent civilians and described the dire conditions in Gaza, where people are receiving less than two liters of water per day. The U.N. and its agencies, including UNRWA, have called for an immediate cease-fire, warning that the humanitarian system is on the verge of collapse. Since the cease-fire ended on December 1, over 2,000 Palestinians have been killed, bringing the total death toll to at least 17,000, with 70% being women and children.

The use of anti-personnel land mines by Russia and Myanmar has led to a significant increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine and Myanmar, according to a report by the International Campaign to Ban Landmines. The report highlights that Russia has extensively used these mines in Ukraine since its invasion in 2022, while Ukraine has also been found to use them in certain areas. Civilian casualties from land mines and remnants of war have surged, with children making up a significant portion of the victims. The report underscores the ongoing threat posed by land mines in various countries and the urgent need for increased resources to support victims.

A U.N. refugee official, Dominique Hyde, reported an escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, with 4.5 million internally displaced and 1.2 million fleeing to neighboring countries due to conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces. The conflict has led to widespread displacement, especially in Darfur, with rampant gender-based violence. Funding shortages are severely impacting humanitarian efforts, with only a fraction of the required funds received. The World Food Program highlights over 20 million people facing severe hunger in Sudan, exacerbated by the climate crisis. Despite the urgency, available funds are being redirected to other crises, such as in Gaza.

The humanitarian situation in Sudan's Darfur region is deteriorating due to escalating conflict between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, resulting in civilian casualties, displacement, and property destruction. The U.N.'s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports significant displacement and rising intercommunal tensions. Over 5.7 million people have been displaced across Sudan, with 25 million requiring humanitarian aid. The U.N. Refugee Agency notes an increase in refugees fleeing to South Sudan. Reports of gender-based violence and abductions by the Rapid Support Forces are rising, with calls for justice and the release of abducted women and girls.

The humanitarian situation in Sudan's Darfur region is deteriorating due to escalating fighting between Sudan Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces, leading to civilian casualties, displacement, and property damage. OCHA reports thousands of civilians killed or wounded, and millions displaced within Sudan and as refugees. UNHCR observes a significant increase in Sudanese fleeing to South Sudan, with a notable rise in violence and sexual assault. UN human rights officials report kidnappings and sexual assaults by the Rapid Support Forces, with women and girls held in slave-like conditions. Human rights officials urge investigations into sexual violence and accountability for perpetrators, while both the RSF and Sudanese army deny allegations of human rights abuses.

The World Meteorological Organization's annual State of Climate Services report warns that climate change is causing a global health crisis, particularly affecting vulnerable communities. It highlights that the rise in global temperatures is unprecedented and that without limiting the increase to 1.5 or 2 degrees Celsius, the situation will worsen. The report finds Africa and South Asia most at risk, with climate change triggering diseases like dengue fever and malaria in new areas. Extreme heat has caused more deaths than other weather events, with an estimated 489,000 annual deaths since 2000, mostly in Asia and Europe. Heatwaves also exacerbate air pollution, leading to around 7 million premature deaths annually. The WHO/WMO Joint Office for Climate and Health acknowledges the challenges faced by the health community and the need for better use of climate science in national policies. Despite 74% of national meteorological services providing data to health systems worldwide, only about 23% of health ministries systematically use this information in health monitoring systems.

UNICEF spokesperson James Elder described Gaza as a 'graveyard' for thousands of children and a 'hell on earth' for survivors. The Gaza Health Ministry, controlled by Hamas, reported over 8,300 Palestinian casualties, including 3,457 children, since Israel's airstrikes began in response to a Hamas attack on October 7. The US, which considers Hamas a terrorist organization, supports Israel but has called for civilian protection. Despite a partial lifting of Gaza's blockade by Israel, essential supplies like fuel for Gaza's power plant and hospitals remain restricted. The World Health Organization has warned of the dire health situation, with 130 babies in incubators and a significant population suffering from chronic diseases in need of medical aid.

Sudan is experiencing the world's largest internally displaced crisis with over 7.6 million people displaced due to conflict. The health system is overwhelmed, with 70 to 80 percent of health facilities non-functional in conflict areas. The WHO warns of severe illness or death from preventable and treatable causes, with 3.4 million children under five acutely malnourished and 700,000 suffering from severe acute malnutrition. Cholera outbreaks have been declared in several states, with over 1,900 suspected cases and 72 deaths. The WHO has deployed rapid response teams and stockpiled supplies to combat the crisis.

The U.N. agency UNICEF warns of escalating casualties in Gaza, particularly among children, if calls for a cease-fire are ignored. The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 8,300 Palestinian deaths, including 3,457 children, since Israel's bombing campaign began in response to Hamas attacks. Despite partial lifting of the blockade, humanitarian aid remains insufficient, with critical shortages of fuel and medical supplies exacerbating the crisis. UNICEF and other agencies stress the urgent need for a cease-fire and increased aid to prevent further loss of life and a looming public health catastrophe.

The Gaza Strip is described as the most dangerous place in the world for children by a top U.N. agency, with thousands of children killed or injured due to Israel's military actions. The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by a lack of food, water, and medical supplies, with hospitals and shelters being unsafe. UNICEF's James Elder and other U.N. officials express deep frustration and call for a cease-fire, highlighting the dire conditions and mass displacement of Palestinians. The World Health Organization reports that most hospitals in Gaza are barely functioning, with horrific conditions for patients.

The World Health Organization warns of a severe health and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with hospitals closing, patients lacking access to care, and health workers fleeing for safety. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries, predominantly among women and children. The WHO highlights the difficulty in delivering humanitarian aid and the urgent need for cease-fire and humanitarian corridors. The situation is exacerbated by attacks on health facilities and the displacement of nearly 85% of Gaza's population.

The crisis in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels of devastation and despair, with severe shortages of food and humanitarian aid exacerbated by ongoing Israeli attacks. UNICEF and other U.N. agencies report dire conditions, particularly in Rafah and northern Gaza, where malnutrition and starvation are rampant. The situation is compounded by blocked humanitarian aid convoys and accusations against both Israeli authorities and Hamas. Calls for urgent action to avert famine and restore humanitarian access are emphasized, highlighting the critical need for international intervention.

The UN agency UNICEF has declared Gaza the most dangerous place in the world for children due to ongoing Israeli military bombardments, which have resulted in thousands of child casualties and widespread suffering from infectious diseases, malnutrition, and lack of medical supplies. James Elder, UNICEF spokesperson, expressed outrage over the humanitarian crisis, describing dire conditions in hospitals and shelters. The World Health Organization and the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported severe damage to medical facilities and high casualty rates. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called for a ceasefire and highlighted the mass displacement of Palestinians. The article underscores the urgent need for international intervention to address the escalating crisis.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened significantly, with increasing deaths and unprecedented killings of UN aid workers. Entire neighborhoods have been destroyed, and millions lack essential supplies. The UN and WHO report severe shortages and non-functioning hospitals. Despite a partial easing of the blockade, Israel continues to restrict fuel supplies, citing security concerns. The US has brokered a daily four-hour humanitarian pause, but aid delivery remains insufficient. The UN advocates for reopening the Kerem Shalom crossing to facilitate aid. The situation remains dire, with no safe access for aid workers.

The UNCTAD report highlights the need for billions of dollars in international aid to rebuild Gaza's infrastructure and economy, which have been severely damaged by decades of border closures, military operations, and economic restrictions. The report emphasizes the importance of lifting restrictions and providing significant economic aid for sustainable recovery. It also notes the economic consequences of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the control Israel exerts over Palestinian fiscal policy. The report calls for a peaceful solution based on international law to end hostilities and ensure long-term recovery.

UN agencies are urgently calling for the lifting of Israel's siege on Gaza to allow the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid. Following the October 7 attack by Hamas, Gaza has faced severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. Limited aid has started to enter through the Rafah border crossing, but it is insufficient to meet the immense needs. UNRWA and WHO officials highlight the critical shortage of fuel, essential for transportation, electricity, and water desalination. The ongoing conflict has displaced 1.4 million people, with many taking refuge in overcrowded UNRWA schools. The U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights reports significant casualties on both sides and calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to prevent further catastrophe.

The World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledges ongoing issues with sexual misconduct among its staff, despite intensified efforts to prevent and respond to such cases. Over the past year, 287 allegations have been investigated, with a significant number linked to the 10th Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. WHO has taken disciplinary actions, including dismissals and entering names into the U.N. Clear Check database to prevent future employment within the U.N. system. The organization emphasizes the importance of surfacing all cases to take appropriate preventive and disciplinary actions.

Tens of thousands of survivors from a series of 6.3 magnitude earthquakes in Herat province, Afghanistan, require urgent humanitarian aid and health services. The WHO's Alaa AbouZeid and Luo Dapeng report significant health consequences, with over 114,000 people needing lifesaving health assistance. The earthquakes resulted in over 1,500 deaths, 2,000 injuries, and extensive damage to homes and health facilities. The WHO has launched a $7.9 million appeal to provide essential health services for the most vulnerable and is deploying resources to address the needs, especially with the approaching winter.

The United Nations' humanitarian agency urgently needs more funds to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank, estimating a requirement of $1.2 billion to assist 2.7 million people. The situation has worsened with increasing violence, internal displacement, and a high death toll, particularly among women and children. The UN has documented significant settler violence and military operations in the West Bank, raising concerns about human rights violations. The conflict between Israel and Hamas, along with cross-border tensions with Hezbollah, risks escalating into a broader regional war. Both sides are urged to adhere to international humanitarian law to protect civilians.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is experiencing severe humanitarian crises, with alarming levels of violence, hunger, poverty, and disease, particularly in the eastern regions. The World Health Organization reports that millions are displaced due to ongoing conflicts, and the health system is overwhelmed by epidemics such as cholera, measles, and mpox. Flooding has exacerbated the situation, affecting millions and increasing the risk of water-borne diseases. The WHO and other UN agencies are scaling up health responses, but efforts are hindered by severe underfunding.

Representatives from the United Nations report a dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. Andrea De Domenico from the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs describes the palpable desperation among Palestinians. Calls for an immediate ceasefire are echoed by Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and UNICEF, highlighting the urgent need to end the suffering and allow humanitarian aid. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and deteriorating conditions, especially for children, with rising cases of disease and malnutrition.

UN agencies warn that Pakistan's planned expulsion of over a million undocumented foreign nationals, including 1.4 million Afghan nationals, risks triggering a human rights catastrophe. They urge Pakistan to suspend these deportations, highlighting the severe risks faced by deportees, especially women, under the Taliban regime. The UNHCR reports that Pakistan hosts 3.7 million Afghan refugees, with 1.7 million deemed illegal. Despite Pakistan's assurances that registered refugees are safe, nearly 60,000 Afghans have returned since the deportation deadline was announced, fearing arrest. The UN calls for continued protection for vulnerable Afghans, noting the dire humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, exacerbated by recent earthquakes in Herat Province.

Top U.N. officials are negotiating at the Rafah crossing to end the stalemate preventing humanitarian aid from reaching Gaza, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians are under siege following a Hamas attack on Israel. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other officials are working to ensure sustained humanitarian access. A U.S.-brokered deal for a 20-truck aid convoy has been delayed due to road repairs. The U.N. and other humanitarian organizations emphasize the urgent need for food, water, fuel, and medicine, while Israel's refusal to allow fuel into Gaza exacerbates the crisis. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties and a dire humanitarian situation, with calls for unimpeded humanitarian relief.

Community hostility in Chad is escalating as thousands of refugees from Sudan continue to arrive, straining limited resources and displacing local Chadians. U.N. officials warn of potential instability if host communities are not supported. Nearly 490,000 Sudanese have sought refuge in Chad since April, with projections of over 600,000 by year-end. The crisis is compounded by regional instability, food insecurity, and climate change impacts. Despite these challenges, Chad has maintained an open-door policy for refugees. U.N. officials are urging international donors to address the significant funding gap to support both refugees and host communities.

Greenhouse gas emissions have reached record highs, with carbon dioxide levels now 50% above pre-industrial levels, according to a World Meteorological Organization report. Methane and nitrous oxide emissions have also seen unprecedented increases. The report, released ahead of COP28, warns that current emission levels could lead to temperature rises well above Paris Agreement targets, resulting in extreme weather, sea-level rise, and public health crises. The Lancet highlights the climate crisis's impact on public health, including food insecurity and the spread of infectious diseases. WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas emphasizes the need for climate adaptation, particularly in Africa, and notes the potential positive impact of renewed U.S.-China climate cooperation.

U.N. humanitarian agencies warn of a growing health emergency in Gaza, with thousands at risk of dying without urgent relief supplies. Around 4,200 people have been killed since Hamas invaded Israel on October 7, with a significant number of casualties in Gaza. Access to fuel, water, food, and medical supplies is critically low, exacerbating the catastrophe. The WHO is concerned about Israel's evacuation orders for northern Gaza, which could violate international humanitarian law. The conflict's escalation risks destabilizing the region. The WFP reports that Gaza's food stocks are sufficient for only two weeks, with limited operational bakeries due to security and fuel issues. Humanitarian supplies are ready at the Egyptian border, but safety and security concerns delay their entry into Gaza.

U.N. aid officials are urgently working to provide humanitarian assistance to tens of thousands of earthquake survivors in western Afghanistan before winter arrives. The earthquakes, which began on October 7, have left over 66,000 people affected, with significant casualties and infrastructure damage. The U.N. and its agencies, including OCHA and UNICEF, are mobilizing resources and funds to support the affected population, particularly women and children. Collaboration with the Taliban has been positive, allowing for effective outreach and medical care.

UN agencies in Geneva on Friday urged Israel to cancel its order for civilians to leave northern Gaza and move to the south within 24 hours, warning of unprecedented misery and further destruction. UNRWA's Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini described the humanitarian crisis as horrific, with over 423,000 Palestinians displaced. WHO joined the call, highlighting the critical state of Gaza's healthcare system and the impossibility of evacuating vulnerable hospital patients. WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic emphasized the need for immediate delivery of life-saving supplies amid a total blockade. UNICEF called for an immediate ceasefire, noting that children make up nearly half of the 1.1 million people warned to avoid Israeli ground attacks. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk requested the implementation of a humanitarian corridor to ensure safe and unhindered access to aid. OCHA launched a new funding appeal for $294 million to provide emergency food and essential aid to 1.2 million people, mainly in Gaza.

Human rights experts accuse all parties in the Central African Republic conflict of severe human rights abuses against civilians. The U.N. deputy high commissioner for human rights, Nada Al-Nashif, highlighted that armed groups and state actors are responsible for numerous violations, including sexual violence and forced recruitment. CAR's Minister of State for Justice, Arnaud Djoubaye Abazene, emphasized the government's efforts to address these issues, particularly focusing on women's and girls' rights. Despite some progress, the security situation remains volatile, and gender-based violence persists. Joanne Adamson from MINUSCA praised the government's efforts but noted ongoing challenges, especially in remote areas.

The UNHCR has warned of a protection crisis in Sudan and neighboring countries due to ongoing conflict between two rival generals, leading to over 5.4 million people being displaced. The crisis is described as the fastest displacement crisis globally, with significant protection challenges and human rights violations reported. The situation has severely impacted Chad and the Central African Republic, with Chad becoming the epicenter of the crisis. The UNHCR has received only 29% of the required $1 billion aid, and the lack of resources threatens the provision of lifesaving humanitarian assistance. The number of Sudanese refugees is projected to reach 1.8 million by year's end, with concerns that the prolonged crisis may destabilize the region.

Over 3,500 delegates at the UNHCR World Forum are seeking practical solutions for the plight of 114 million forcibly displaced people. UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi emphasized the need for renewed commitment to addressing forced displacement and protecting refugees. The forum also highlighted the ongoing crisis in Gaza, with calls for a humanitarian ceasefire and coordinated international support. Jordan's King Abdullah II and Colombia's Vice President Francia Elena Márquez Mina stressed the heavy burdens on host countries and the need for global responsibility. The forum underscored the importance of addressing various global refugee crises, including those in Sudan, Ukraine, and among the Rohingya.

The Global Refugee Forum, attended by over 3,500 delegates, seeks practical solutions for 114 million forcibly displaced people. UNHCR's Filippo Grandi emphasized the need for renewed commitment to addressing forced displacement, while Jordan's King Abdullah II and Colombia's Vice President Francia Elena Marquez Mina highlighted the significant burdens on host countries. The forum also addressed the ongoing crises in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, and other regions, stressing the importance of international support and long-term responsibility sharing.

A joint study by the World Health Organization and International Labour Organization reveals that nearly one-third of deaths from non-melanoma skin cancer are due to occupational sun exposure. The study highlights the global nature of this issue, affecting both high-income and low to middle-income countries. It calls for governments to implement policies to protect workers, especially those in the informal economy, from harmful UV radiation. Effective and cost-efficient measures such as providing shade, hydration, and protective clothing are recommended to prevent these deaths.

U.N. agencies, including the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights and the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, are urging Israel to lift its siege on Gaza, citing international humanitarian law violations. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with over 900 Israelis and 687 Palestinians reported killed. Nearly 200,000 people in Gaza have been displaced, taking shelter in UNRWA schools. Essential services like electricity and water have been cut off, and the WHO has confirmed attacks on healthcare facilities. A humanitarian corridor is needed to deliver critical supplies, and UNICEF has called for an immediate end to hostilities, highlighting the impact on children and condemning the abduction of Israeli children to Gaza. U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has condemned summary executions and mass killings by Palestinian armed groups and called for the release of civilians held hostage.

The conflict in Sudan has led to severe humanitarian crises, with over 7.1 million people displaced since April due to fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. Dominique Hyde of the UNHCR highlighted the dire conditions and widespread atrocities, including sexual violence, during a press briefing in Geneva. Despite Saudi Arabia brokering cease-fire negotiations, the agreement does not include a cease-fire, and fighting is expected to continue. The international community's attention to the crisis remains minimal.

Russian activists warn that President Vladimir Putin may use a recent terrorist attack to further tighten his grip on power and repress society. Human rights activist Evgenia Kara-Murza and others express concerns about the potential for increased aggression against neighboring countries and the reinstatement of the death penalty. The Kremlin is accused of linking the attack to Ukraine without evidence. Reports indicate that political prisoners in Russia face severe torture and poor conditions, with calls for their immediate release. The article highlights the ongoing repression and human rights abuses under Putin's regime.

Disease outbreaks, malnutrition, and non-communicable diseases are escalating in Sudan due to the ongoing conflict, displacing millions and overwhelming the health system. The World Health Organization reports that 70-80% of health facilities in conflict zones are non-functional, with significant outbreaks of cholera, measles, dengue, and malaria. Malnutrition is widespread, affecting millions, particularly children. Efforts to contain the crisis include stockpiling drugs, deploying rapid response teams, and planning a cholera vaccination campaign. However, officials stress that only peace can address the root causes of the humanitarian disaster.

A senior U.N. refugee official warns of an escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, with millions displaced due to conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. The violence has led to severe shortages of food, shelter, and medical care, particularly affecting women and children. Despite urgent needs, funding for humanitarian aid is critically low, exacerbated by global attention shifting to other crises like Gaza. The U.N. calls for an end to gender-based violence and increased accountability, but efforts are hampered by insufficient resources.

Global smoking rates are declining, but the World Health Organization (WHO) warns of a significant rise in e-cigarette and vaping device use, particularly among children. WHO's Ruediger Krech highlights the tobacco industry's tactics to attract young users and calls for stronger regulatory measures. Despite the overall decrease in tobacco use, with notable declines in Southeast Asia and Africa, the tobacco industry is aggressively targeting regions with lower prevalence rates. WHO urges countries to implement stringent tobacco control policies to combat this trend.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan, driven by rival generals, has led to the world's fastest-growing displacement crisis, with 5.4 million people displaced. U.N. official Clementine Nkweta-Salami highlights the severe humanitarian needs, with half of Sudan's population requiring aid. The conflict has disrupted healthcare, exacerbated by flooding and a cholera outbreak. Despite commitments to de-escalate, violence continues, particularly in Khartoum, Nyala, and al-Fasher. The U.N. faces challenges in delivering aid due to bureaucratic and security obstacles. The conflict risks becoming a protracted crisis with regional spillover effects.

The use of anti-personnel land mines by Russia and Myanmar has led to a significant increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine and Myanmar, as reported by the International Campaign to Ban Landmines. Russia has extensively used these mines in Ukraine since its invasion in 2022, while Ukraine has also been accused of using them in certain areas. The report highlights that 85% of land mine casualties are civilians, with children making up a significant portion. The highest number of casualties was recorded in Syria, followed by Ukraine, Yemen, and Myanmar. The report also notes that nonstate armed groups in various countries have used land mines, exacerbating the problem. De-mining activists warn that the number of victims will continue to rise as long as land mines remain in the ground, with healthcare and rehabilitation services severely underfunded.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports a significant global increase in dengue cases, attributing the surge to climate change factors such as increased rainfall, humidity, and temperatures. Data shows a tenfold rise in dengue incidence over the past two decades, with nearly 80% of cases reported in the Americas this year. The WHO highlights the public health challenge posed by dengue, especially in fragile and conflict-affected regions. The organization urges global attention and response, emphasizing early detection and preventive measures to mitigate the spread of the virus.

The International Labor Organization (ILO) warns of a rise in global unemployment in 2024, reversing the recovery seen post-COVID-19 pandemic. The ILO's report highlights a projected increase in unemployment from 5.1% in 2023 to 5.2% in 2024, with significant concerns over the worsening jobs gap and social inequality. High-income countries fare better than low-income ones in narrowing the jobs gap, but extreme poverty and informal work remain pressing issues. Youth unemployment, particularly in Africa, and under-investment in skills are identified as major challenges. Despite technological advances, productivity growth continues to slow, attributed to insufficient investment in labor market policies.

U.N. officials warn of rising community hostility in Chad as refugees from Sudan strain resources and displace local populations. Nearly 490,000 Sudanese have sought refuge in Chad since mid-April due to armed clashes, with projections of over 600,000 by year's end. Chad's open-door policy and regional instability have exacerbated resource pressures, with only a fraction of the required funds for operations received. Food insecurity affects 5.7 million people, with 2.1 million facing acute hunger. The U.N. is appealing to international donors to address the funding gap and support both refugees and host communities to prevent social instability and conflict.

The article recounts the harrowing experiences of Nelle, a survivor of sexual violence during the Burundi conflict, and other women who suffered similar fates in various conflict zones around the world. These survivors gathered in Geneva for a retreat organized by the Mukwege Foundation to share their stories and work towards creating a global movement to end the use of rape as a weapon of war. The article highlights the historical context of recognizing rape as a weapon of war by the United Nations Security Council and the adoption of resolution 1325. Testimonies from survivors like Solange Bigiramana and Farida Abbas-Khalaf, a Yazidi girl, emphasize the importance of breaking the silence and the role of support in healing. The survivors aim to bring their experiences to light and advocate for change.

UN officials report dire conditions in Gaza after nearly three months of Israeli military bombardment, with Palestinians lacking food, water, and medical supplies. Andrea De Domenico of the UN OCHA describes the desperation felt by the crowded and shelterless population. The UNHRC's Volker Turk and UNICEF's Lucia Elmi call for an immediate ceasefire to end suffering and allow for the delivery of humanitarian aid. The conflict, disease, and malnutrition have put over 135,000 children at risk of severe acute malnutrition, with cases of diarrhea in toddlers doubling in two weeks.

The World Health Organization warns that humanitarian aid is not reaching millions in conflict-driven health emergencies, risking deaths from wounds and diseases. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus accuses Israel of blocking aid to Gaza, facing bombardment and disease proliferation. Gaza's health ministry reports over 23,000 Palestinian deaths since Hamas's invasion. WHO struggles to access Gaza due to destroyed infrastructure and hostilities. WHO's Michael Ryan criticizes the destruction of services, while COGAT's Col. Elad Goren denies a blockade, stating aid is not hindered. Tedros also highlights crises in Sudan and Ethiopia, with displaced populations, disease outbreaks, and malnutrition.

Humanitarian organizations UNHCR, UNICEF, and IRC have reported that unaccompanied and separated refugee and migrant children in Europe are at risk of exploitation, trafficking, abuse, and violence. Despite a decrease in overall arrivals, the situation for these children is still considered an emergency. The organizations have created a 'Roadmap for Action' to enhance protection for these vulnerable children. The Roadmap, developed with input from practitioners and affected children, includes recommendations such as child-friendly registration processes and the appointment of trained guardians. Data indicates over 130,000 such children have arrived in Europe since July 2015, with a significant number from conflict-affected regions like Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Italy has recently passed a law to support these children, but the need for improved protection across Europe remains critical.

The UN Conference on Trade and Development's report highlights the significant growth of the tourism sector in Africa, with projections indicating a substantial increase in its contribution to the continent's GDP by 2026. The report emphasizes the rise of intra-African tourism, which has surpassed visitors from other continents, and operates year-round, providing more sustainable livelihoods. However, UNCTAD's secretary-general, Mukhisa Kituyi, points out that the potential of regional tourism is not fully realized due to restrictive air transport policies. He notes that the majority of air traffic is dominated by just four countries, and high landing costs for airlines within Africa due to protectionist policies are impeding the reduction of travel expenses and the expansion of tourism. Kituyi advocates for the liberalization of air transport to enhance economic growth through increased intra-continental travel.

The article discusses the UNHCR's call for the U.N. sanctions committee to extend sanctions on Libya to include financial and travel bans on human traffickers and smugglers. Vincent Cochetel, UNHCR Special Envoy, emphasizes the need for radical action against the abuse and exploitation of refugees and migrants in Libya. The UNHCR study highlights the increase in migrants arriving in Italy and the dangers they face, including death during the crossing. It also points out the rise in unaccompanied children and the acknowledgment by Libyan authorities of certain nationalities at risk. The article mentions the complex smuggling economy in Libya, which involves the sale of smuggled oil and is linked to the militia controlling the region. The human trafficking issue is presented as a transnational crime that should be addressed by both the U.N. and the EU sanctions committees.