The message that we have here in Geneva for world leaders is clear: we have to act and we have the tools to act.” The Human Rights Council is a key partner in the global push for urgent, inclusive and sustainable climate action. Through its resolutions, special rapporteurs and input from Member States and civil society representatives including The Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL)’s Francesca Mingrone, the Council’s work also highlights the need to protect vulnerable communities and biodiversity.
Four powerful 90-second films featuring civil society representatives to highlight the value of the Council in taking action to defend the rights of women (Afghanistan), investigate abuses against minorities (Myanmar), protecting young people and on the issue of climate change. Produced in partnership with the European Union
Four powerful 90-second films featuring civil society representatives to highlight the value of the Council in taking action to defend the rights of women (Afghanistan), investigate abuses against minorities (Myanmar), protecting young people and on the issue of climate change. Produced in partnership with the European Union
Four powerful 90-second films featuring civil society representatives to highlight the value of the Council in taking action to defend the rights of women (Afghanistan), investigate abuses against minorities (Myanmar), protecting young people and on the issue of climate change. Produced in partnership with the European Union
Four powerful 90-second films featuring civil society representatives to highlight the value of the Council in taking action to defend the rights of women (Afghanistan), investigate abuses against minorities (Myanmar), protecting young people and on the issue of climate change. Produced in partnership with the European Union
The United Nations’ newly appointed Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide issues a stark warning that the world is witnessing an alarming erosion of respect for international law, with conflicts increasingly targeting civilians and heightening the risk of atrocity crimes.
Despite the gravity of his mandate, the Special Adviser remains focused on diplomacy and prevention over public condemnation.
Mr. Chaloka Beyani of Zambia was appointed Special Adviser of the Secretary-General for the Prevention of Genocide at the Under- Secretary-General level in August 2025.
He is an international expert on internally-displaced persons, population transfers, mercenaries and private military companies, sexual and reproductive health, human rights-based approach to development and climate change, having served as Legal Adviser to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Office of the High Commissioner on Refugees, the World Health Organization, the United Nations Population Fund, United Nations Development Fund for Women, the European Union, the Commonwealth Secretariat and the African Union.
Mr. Beyani holds a Doctor of Philosophy, University of Oxford, UK (1992), as well as a Master of Laws and a Bachelor of Laws, University of Zambia (1984, 1982).
Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Afairs and Emergency Relief coordinator, briefs press ahead of the release of the Global Humanitarian Overview 2026.
The world spent $2.7 trillion on weapons last year. In 2026, OCHA will ask the world for $23 billion to save 87 million lives. OCHA is asking for just 1% of that to save 87 million lives—more than died in WWII.
The next 87 days decide whether the world shows up.
The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme kicks off the International Volunteer Year 2026. This opening video honors the power of volunteerism to drive sustainable development, foster solidarity, and create positive change worldwide. Featuring voices and stories from across the globe, it sets the tone for a year dedicated to action, recognition, and impact.
The event to celebrate the International Day of Volunteer on 5 December 2025 at the UN Headquarters also launches the International Year of Volunteer for Sustainable Development in 2026 to recognize, amplify and advance the contributions of volunteers to global development and resilience.
Remarks by Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, on behalf of António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, at the Informal meeting to commemorate and promote the International Day against Unilateral Coercive Measures.
