UN body promoting global human rights, elected 47 members for staggered terms
Saudi Arabia has championed an international pledge to empower women in cybersecurity and strengthen cooperation on cyber policy at a UN Human Rights Council session. The resolution, submitted by Riyadh’s Geneva mission, builds on a 2020 crown prince initiative and aims to boost participation, skills development and safe digital environments worldwide.
Drone attacks on El-Obeid and surrounding areas have escalated, hitting civilian targets including wedding-related vehicles and water transport. The fighting between the Sudanese army and the RSF continues to displace thousands, disrupt essential services, and raise fears of a humanitarian catastrophe as drones disrupt infrastructure and supply routes.
Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega has announced there will be no more elections and his congress has begun drafting constitutional changes to extend the presidential term and block opposition candidates. The proposal would make terms seven years and bar those labeled "traitors" or "coup plotters" from office; the UN and the US have condemned the moves.
The UN General Assembly has reappointed Volker Turk as High Commissioner for Human Rights after debates over a four-year term. Russia and Israel oppose the extension; the United States warns of consequences. Guterres has nominated Turk for another four years, with some regional blocs backing the move and others voicing concerns. The vote will determine whether Turk serves until 2030.
The Khalra case in Punjab remains a touchstone for human rights accountability after Paramjit Kaur Khalra and Sikh activists were subjected to disappearances, torture, and killings tied to state actions during the 1980s. Recent films and international attention rekindle debates over state accountability and freedom of expression.
Zambia’s president has inaugurated a new term amid ongoing tensions after August elections. Observers flag uneven counting and concerns over the conduct, while opposition leaders face treason charges and arrests. Calls for unity contrast with reports of intimidation and legal challenges.
The International Court of Justice is hearing Germany’s objections to Nicaragua’s genocide case, arguing the court lacks jurisdiction and that key claims are inadmissible. The hearings come amid ongoing Gaza violence and a wider legal battle over Israel’s actions in the territory. Germany is defending its arms exports while Nicaragua accuses Berlin of facilitating genocide through support for Israel.
UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese warns that removing rubble in Gaza risks destroying evidence of alleged international crimes, including genocide, and could trigger international criminal responsibility for those involved. She notes thousands remain buried and calls for independent oversight to preserve evidence and ensure proper documentation.
An independent UN fact‑finding mission has concluded there are reasonable grounds to believe US forces carried out two February strikes in Iran — on a primary school in Minab and a sports complex in Lamerd — that amounted to indiscriminate attacks and therefore constituted war crimes. The mission has also found Iran committed crimes against humanity during nationwide protests.
The United Nations rights office has added 61 more companies to its database of firms operating in Israeli settlements, bringing the total to 214. Most are Israeli; new entries include ADAMA, Alony Hetz and Salvat Logistica. Several travel platforms were already on the list. Countries are debating or enforcing limits on settlement trade as EU states consider action.