Domestic abuse rises with virus lockdowns due to the pandemic
An upsurge in domestic violence has been reported in all regions as many people grapple with stay-at-home orders.
United Nations
The United Nations is the world's primary forum for diplomacy and peace. Founded in the wake of WWII to prevent global conflict, this organization of 193 member nations now serves as the stage for addressing our most pressing challenges — from climate change to human rights. We cover the U.N.'s policies and efforts to build a more peaceful, just, and prosperous world.
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Alarm as COVID-19 cases surpass 1 million
Infections surpassed 1 million and deaths exceeded 52,000 in the coronavirus pandemic, forcing lockdowns for half the world and economic collapse.
World's 'greatest test' delays climate talks
The coronavirus pandemic that has caused 47,000 deaths worldwide represents what officials call humanity's worst crisis since World War II.
Uprooted 70 million at risk in virus spread
The coronavirus pandemic threatens to disproportionately harm more than 70 million people who have been forcibly displaced by wars and violent crises.
Virus fears amplify appeals for Syria peace
Human rights experts warily eyeing the first cases of coronavirus in Syria renewed long-ignored calls for an end to the war, this time in the name of health.
G-20 pledges $5 trillion to fight virus
G-20 major economies promised to spend more than $5 trillion to prop up the global economy and hasten recovery from the pandemic.
U.N. launches $2 billion anti-virus plan
The U.N. asked governments and private donors to provide $2 billion to meet emergency health needs in the poorest countries coping with the pandemic.
U.N. urges cease-fire as cases near 400,000
The U.N. chief called for a global cease-fire to help vanquish the pandemic, imploring warring parties to disarm and fight the virus as a "common enemy."
Europe's mixed progress toward U.N. goals
Air pollution levels exceed recommended health limits in all but 10 mainly European countries, but most lowered carbon emissions and expanded forest cover.
Syria's horrific war marks grim milestone
Almost 5 million children in Syria have known nothing but war for nine years while another 1 million were born as refugees into a harsh life, UNICEF reported.
WHO and foundations launch virus fund
WHO and two international foundations launched a first-of-its-kind fund to help vulnerable populations and weak health systems cope with the pandemic.
WHO: World's first coronavirus pandemic
WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic — the global spread of a new disease — marking the first time a coronavirus has gained that distinction.
WMO warns Earth halfway to Paris limit
Signs of global warming are everywhere, WMO said in a report that found the world officially crossed the halfway point to a major climate crisis benchmark.
U.N. warns of $2 trillion in economic losses from coronavirus
Trade economists who advise the U.N. said COVID-19 could push nations into recession and depress global annual growth.
U.N. reboots 1995 plan for gender equality
A U.N.-led global commission recommitted the world to achieving gender equality, in a relaunch and update of a quarter-century old landmark agreement.
Nuclear watchdog agency to help in global fight against coronavirus
IAEA says countries in need of help can get training in nuclear science knowhow to tackle disease transmission.