Freedom of religion or belief is the basic human right, which plays an important role to combat religious hatred, incitement and violence. However, acts of intolerance and violence in the name of religion or belief, against individuals, including against persons belonging to religious communities and religious minorities, continue around the world. The number and intensity of such incidents, often criminal in nature, are increasing. Through the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief (22 August), the United Nations condemns the violence.
The will meet virtually from 17 August to 4 September 2020. The Committee is a body of which monitors implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The includes updates on reports received from the parties to the Convention. The Committee will discuss how to strengthen cooperation between United Nations bodies and other stakeholders, including organizations of persons with disabilities, in order to enhance the promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities.
reports on human rights-centred recommendations, by a coalition of 50 cities worldwide, to guide leaders as they use digital technology in response to crises such as COVID 19.
We all can do something against racism. You too. Join and leading personalities from all over the world in denouncing mounting racial discrimination. UNESCO has been on the forefront of the fight against racism since its creation in 1945. In 1978, it adopted the Declaration on Race and Racial Prejudice which reaffirms that 鈥淎ll human beings belong to a single species and are descended from a common stock. They are born equal in dignity and rights and all an integral part of humanity.鈥
There are an estimated 67 million domestic workers worldwide, the vast majority of whom are women. As they try to maintain their livelihoods, lack of access to social protection makes domestic workers especially vulnerable to the pandemic. Oscar-nominated actress rose to fame in the film Roma, where she starred as an indigenous domestic worker. As a Goodwill Ambassador, Ms. Aparicio defends the rights of indigenous peoples and domestic workers. For domestic workers, there are only two options, she explains: stop receiving income or risk exposure to COVID-19.
In Bangladesh, virtual courts ease COVID-19 risk
The researches, examines and provides visibility to the violence and discrimination experienced every day by gays, lesbian, bisexual, trans and other gender diverse persons around the wor
Older persons are among the more visible victims of the current health crisis. Although all age groups are at risk of COVID-19, older persons face higher risk of mortality and severe disease following infection, with an estimated 66% of people over 70 having underlying conditions. 鈥淣o person, young or old, is expendable鈥, spelled out UN Secretary-General Ant贸nio Guterres in a video message launching a policy brief on older persons. The impact on health and long-term care services for older persons must confront the challenges they face, including access to medical treatment and care.
United Nations efforts to prevent trafficking in persons take an important step forward with the launch of the online training on the . Developed by and the , the free e-learning course explores the unique opportunities cabin crew have to observe passengers over the duration of their flights and potentially identify and assist human trafficking victims.
In recognition of the former South African President鈥檚 contribution to the culture of peace and freedom, the United Nations declared 18 July as Nelson Mandela International Day, to honour his dedication to the service of humanity and the promotion of social justice. On 18 July, delivers the , "Tackling the Inequality Pandemic: A New Social Contract for a New Era". The Secretary-General takes aim at the various layers of inequality that are being exposed and exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch at 9:00 am EDT.
As Pride events are celebrated virtually around the world, the United Nations continues to support lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex (LGBTI) people, who are among the most vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health care discrimination, based on sexual orientation and gender identity, has been extensively documented. This discrimination can elevate the risk for LGBTI people from COVID-19. A guidance published by the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), identifies many during the crisis and sets out key actions in the context of the pandemic.
Concerned by the growing number of reports of violence against journalists during demonstrations, Director-General Audrey Azoulay reiterates the principle whereby 鈥渇reedom of expression is a vitally important component of democracy, and journalists鈥 reporting on events is essential to press freedom and to the right to information.鈥 Recent waves of protest around the world highlighted the problem posed by cases of excessive use of force by law enforcement agents on reporters.
Although all age groups are at risk of contracting COVID-19, older persons are at a significantly higher risk of mortality, with those over 80 years old dying at five times the average rate. An estimated 66% of people aged 70 and over have at least one underlying condition, placing them at increased risk of severe impact from COVID-19. The UN General Assembly recognized 15 June as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day to bring attention to the harm or distress suffered by older persons.
"" is the theme for this year's International Albinism Awareness Day. The theme was chosen to celebrate the achievements and successes of persons with albinism worldwide. It is also a call to stand in solidarity with people with albinism through their challenges. Recently, in some countries, they have been branded 鈥淐orona鈥 or 鈥淐OVID-19鈥 in an attempt to scapegoat them for the pandemic. On this day we stand together with people with albinism all over the world in their fight to live a life that is free of stigma, discrimination, fear and violence.
On World Press Freedom Day, calls on governments, media and civil society to join the global online movement to highlight the importance of a free and independent press at all times, but in particular during this health crisis. It is important to help the media and journalists report on the crisis effectively and safely, and to promote critical thinking to limit the spread of rumours and misinformation. Together, we will ensure that our response to the crisis is effective. This unprecedented health crisis has the potential to .