‘Clear and convincing information’ that hostages held in Gaza subjected to sexual violence says UN Special Representative

‘Clear and convincing information’ that hostages held in Gaza subjected to sexual violence says UN Special Representative

Pramila Patten added in a press release issued along with the report, that there are also reasonable grounds to believe that such violence, which includes other “cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment”, may be continuing against those still being held by Hamas and other extremists in the Gaza Strip. The report from her Office, arose from…

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World News in Brief: Papua New Guinea violence, Ukraine’s displaced, $2.6 billion DR Congo appeal

World News in Brief: Papua New Guinea violence, Ukraine’s displaced, $2.6 billion DR Congo appeal

Authorities are urged to engage with provincial and local leaders in a dialogue to achieve durable peace and respect for human rights in the remote Highlands region. The appeal follows the latest outbreak of violence between warring tribes in the Pacific Island nation, which occurred on Sunday in Enga province. At least 26 people were…

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Myanmar: Military’s ‘campaign of violence’ must end, UN chief says on anniversary of coup

Myanmar: Military’s ‘campaign of violence’ must end, UN chief says on anniversary of coup

In a statement issued by his Spokesman on Wednesday, the UN chief underscored the urgency of a transition to democratic governance and reinstating civilian rule. “The Secretary-General condemns all forms of violence and calls for the protection of civilians and cessation of hostilities,” said the statement. “An inclusive solution to this crisis requires conditions that…

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UN representative on sexual violence in conflict to visit Israel and West Bank

UN representative on sexual violence in conflict to visit Israel and West Bank

Pramila Patten, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, will also visit the occupied West Bank, where she will meet with the Palestinian Authority, civil society organizations, recently released detainees and other relevant actors. The visit is set to start on Monday and will conclude in early February.  Giving voice to…

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World News in Brief: UN helicopter captured in Somalia, Ecuador violence condemned, new Human Rights Council president

World News in Brief: UN helicopter captured in Somalia, Ecuador violence condemned, new Human Rights Council president

The helicopter was captured after it was forced to make an emergency landing in an area controlled by the armed group, according to international media reports. “I can confirm that there was an incident involving a UN-contracted helicopter that took place today in Galmudug in Somalia,” UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told journalists in New York…

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World News in Brief, Bangladesh democracy call, accountability for Israeli victims of sexual violence, plastic pollution in the Antarctic, powering Ukraine

World News in Brief, Bangladesh democracy call, accountability for Israeli victims of sexual violence, plastic pollution in the Antarctic, powering Ukraine

High Commissioner Volker Türk voiced his concern that Sunday’s poll which saw Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secure a fifth term in office, was “marred by violence and repression of opposition candidates and supporters”, according to a press release from rights office OHCHR. “In the months leading up to the vote, thousands of opposition supporters have…

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UN rights chief warns of ‘dehumanization’ of Palestinians amid West Bank violence as Gaza crisis deepens

UN rights chief warns of ‘dehumanization’ of Palestinians amid West Bank violence as Gaza crisis deepens

Commenting on a new report on the West Bank released by his office, OHCHR, Mr. Türk expressed concern at the use of military means and weapons by law enforcement, movement restrictions affecting Palestinians and a sharp rise in settler violence resulting in the displacement of herding communities. “The dehumanization of Palestinians that characterizes many of the…

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