Sand and dust storms intensify global health and economic crises
The World Meteorological Organization revealed these airborne hazards affect 330 million people in 150 countries.
Qatar
Qatar is a sovereign nation in the Middle East known for its immense wealth from natural gas and its active role in global diplomacy. It has positioned itself as a key mediator in international conflicts, notably by facilitating the 2020 peace agreement between the U.S. and the Taliban and brokering the release of hostages in high-profile negotiations.
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Swiss to rescue Geneva's multilateral hub with $390 million relief package
Swiss and Geneva authorities approved measures that 'aim to ease acute funding shortfalls' for international organizations.
Leaders seek ways for U.S. to help end Sudan's humanitarian crisis
The U.N. estimates 150,000 people were killed over two years in the war between paramilitary RSF and Sudanese Army.
Humanitarians prepare surge in aid for Gaza as Israel approves cease-fire
International aid agencies expressed relief over a cease-fire but cautioned it must lead to a more lasting peace agreement.
ICC targets top Israeli and Hamas leaders over alleged Gaza atrocities
The top prosecutor's action drew immediate and fierce reaction, with U.S. President Biden calling it 'outrageous.'
U.N. Security Council for first time agrees to demand cease-fire in Gaza
On a 14-0 vote with the U.S. abstaining, the council urged a cease-fire in Gaza during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
Study finds 37% rise in illegal profits from forced labor over past decade
By far the largest share of the $236 billion a year in illegal profits comes from forced commercial sexual exploitation.
In Davos, pressure builds for a two-state resolution to the war in Gaza
Leaders departed after a week of talks dominated by wars in Gaza and Ukraine, AI and a year of elections.
Wars, climate, trade top global challenges for leaders at Davos
More than 2,800 leaders from 120 countries were expected at the World Economic Forum gathering this week.
U.S. vetoes U.N. cease-fire bid as Israelis push south into Gaza
Gaza's aid reached a breaking point as Israel fought to destroy Hamas and groups warned Palestinians face starvation.
Negligible relief seen for people of Gaza as pause in fighting begins
The United Nations and agencies rushed to provide humanitarian aid as Israel and Hamas began a four-day truce.
Nations seeking to expand fossil fuel production despite climate pledges
Government plans would blow past limits needed to limit warming to 1.5° Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
Leaked audio indicates U.N. climate summit host will try to limit scrutiny
In the recording, UAE officials anticipate a need to "minimize" attacks on the Gulf nation's human rights record when it hosts COP28 in Dubai later this year.
Danger of exhausting local water supply puts 1-in-4 at risk globally
'Extremely high water stress' afflicts 83% of the population in the Middle East and North Africa and 74% in South Asia.
U.N. labor conference led by Qatari despite migrant worker controversy
Delegates from 187 nations set aside concerns about human rights and migrant workers for Qatar's labor minister to head the International Labor Conference.
Syrian government's isolation eases with Arab bloc summit appearance
Syrian President Bashar Assad, formerly ostracized by most Arab nations, was warmly readmitted to the Arab League.