UN Daily Press Briefing: Gaza Famine, DRC Conflict, Libya Elections, and Global Health

Gaza Famine and Humanitarian Crisis

• 🚨 The Secretary-General declared a man-made disaster in Gaza, stating that famine has been added to the lexicon of suffering.
• ⚠️ Famine is described not just as a lack of food, but the deliberate collapse of survival systems, with people starving and children dying.
• ⚖️ Israel, as the occupying power, has unequivocal obligations under international law to ensure the population's food and medical supplies.
• ⏳ The Secretary-General stressed the immediate need for a ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and full humanitarian access.
• 🏥 Intensified strikes in Gaza city threaten to cripple the healthcare system, with nearly half of all hospitals located there.

Conflict and Peace Efforts in DRC

• 🕊️ Progress has been made in the Democratic Republic of the Congo with peace agreements between the DRC and Rwanda, and a declaration of principles with the M23.
• ⚠️ Despite diplomatic progress, the security situation on the ground remains dire, with a dramatic rise in civilian casualties and ongoing conflict-related sexual violence.
• 🌍 International and regional bodies, including the US, Qatar, EAC, SADC, and AU, are involved in peace efforts, with the UN providing support.
• 📢 The Security Council is urged to exert its full weight to ensure respect for all parties and compliance with resolutions.

Libya Elections and Security Concerns

• 🗳️ Libya held elections in 26 municipalities on August 16th, despite significant challenges, with a call for candidates to accept the results.
• 📉 The economic and security situations in Libya remain dire, characterized by increasing militarization.
• 🤝 Dialogue is urged to resolve outstanding issues and avoid provocative demands.

Global Health and Extreme Heat

• 🌡️ A joint report by WHO and WMO highlights the growing global health challenges posed by extreme heat on workers.
• 📈 Climate change is driving more frequent and intense heat waves, with 2024 being the hottest year on record.
• ⚠️ Immediate action is needed to address the worsening impact of heat stress on workers worldwide.

UN Leadership and International Days

• 🌍 The Secretary-General appointed Chaloka Beyani of Zambia as the Special Advisor on the Prevention of Genocide.
• 🕊️ Today is the International Day Commemorating Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief.
• 🌍 Tomorrow is the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition.