WHO calls for $1 billion to provide health care to people in emergencies by 2026

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: United Nations – United Nations –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

February 3, 2026 Healthcare

The World Health Organization (WHO) today called on the global community to provide nearly $1 billion in emergency health support through 2026.

In 2025, WHO and its partners appealed for $1.5 billion in a similar appeal. Due to funding shortfalls, WHO was unable to provide assistance to everyone it had planned. However, the funds raised allowed for assistance to 30 million people. Around 5.3 million children were vaccinated, more than 8,000 health facilities received support, and 1,370 mobile clinics were deployed.

This year, WHO plans to provide assistance to people in 36 "hot spots" where the situation is considered an emergency.

“This appeal is a plea for support for people living in conflict, displacement and disaster – not just to provide services, but to give them confidence that the world has not turned its back on them,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

"This isn't charity. It's a strategic investment in health and safety," he added.

The 2026 appeal comes against a backdrop of protracted conflicts, extreme weather events and large-scale infectious disease outbreaks – while global humanitarian funding continues to decline.

Priorities for 2026

In 2026, WHO's priority areas for emergency response will be Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Myanmar, the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, and Yemen. Assistance is also planned for those affected by cholera and monkeypox outbreaks.

As the leading agency coordinating global health care, WHO brings together more than 1,500 partners worldwide.

"Every humanitarian crisis is a health crisis. That's why Ireland is proud to support WHO's emergency response efforts through unearmarked, flexible, and predictable funding from the WHO Emergency Response Fund," said Ireland's Permanent Representative to the UN Office at Geneva, Noel White.

“In today’s most challenging emergencies, WHO remains an indispensable organization, protecting people’s health, ensuring respect for international humanitarian law, and ensuring that essential medical aid reaches places where many other organizations cannot,” added Marita Sørheim-Rensvik, Permanent Representative of Norway to the UN Office at Geneva.

Norway calls on all countries to support the work of the WHO so that it can continue to provide assistance to those who need it most.

Early investments enable WHO and its partners to respond quickly to crises and emergencies, reducing deaths and illnesses, containing outbreaks, and providing hospitals with essential medicines and equipment.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

WHO: Up to 40 percent of cancer cases can be prevented

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: United Nations – United Nations –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

February 3, 2026 Healthcare

Four out of ten cancer cases worldwide are preventable, according to a new global analysis by the World Health Organization and the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

The study, published on the eve of World Cancer Day, celebrated on February 4, covers data from 185 countries and 36 types of cancer. It assesses the impact of 30 preventable risk factors, including tobacco and alcohol consumption, high body mass index, low physical activity, air pollution, and ultraviolet radiation.

Experts estimate that in 2022, approximately 7.1 million new cancer cases—37 percent—were due to avoidable factors. The authors emphasize that these data demonstrate the enormous potential of prevention in reducing the global burden of the disease.

Main reasons

Tobacco smoking remains the leading preventable cause of cancer, accounting for 15 percent of all new cases. Infections are second, accounting for 10 percent of new diagnoses. Third place goes to alcohol consumption, responsible for three percent of cases.

Almost half of the preventable cancer cases worldwide are caused by three types of disease: lung, stomach, and cervical cancer. Lung cancer is primarily caused by smoking and air pollution, stomach cancer by Helicobacter pylori infection, and cervical cancer – human papillomavirus.

According to Dr. André Ilbawi, Head of the WHO Cancer Control Programme, this is the first global analysis to show the scale of the impact of preventable factors and allow countries and individuals to take more effective measures to reduce risk.

Gender and geographic differences

The study revealed significant differences between men and women. Among men, preventable factors account for 45 percent of new cancer cases, compared to 30 percent among women. The main risk factors for men are smoking, infections, and alcohol, while for women, they are infections, smoking, and a high body mass index.

Regional differences also proved significant. Among women, the proportion of preventable cases ranged from 24 percent in Northern Africa and Western Asia to 38 percent in sub-Saharan Africa. Among men, rates ranged from 28 percent in Latin America and the Caribbean to 57 percent in East Asia. These differences reflect varying levels of exposure to behavioral, environmental, and infectious factors, as well as differences in socioeconomic development, national prevention policies, and health system capacity.

The study authors emphasize that effective prevention strategies must be tailored to the local context and include measures to control tobacco and alcohol sales, HPV and hepatitis B vaccinations, improved air quality, safer workplaces, and the creation of conditions for healthy eating and physical activity.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

The UN is sounding the alarm: five years after the coup in Myanmar, mass sexual violence continues.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: United Nations – United Nations –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

February 2, 2026 International law

Five years after the military seized power in Myanmar, sexual violence continues to be widely used as a tool of war and repression "to punish and intimidate the population," said Pramila Patten, UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict.

According to her, since February 2021, the scale of rape, gang rape, and other forms of sexual violence has increased sharply amid ongoing conflict, mass displacement, and a humanitarian crisis. The UN estimates that approximately 11.6 million people, including six million women and girls, are in need of protection.

Systematic nature of violations

There are "horrific" reports of systematic sexual violence by the Myanmar military and affiliated forces "against women, girls, men, boys, and members of the LGBTQI community, regardless of ethnicity or religion" during raids in villages, at checkpoints, in detention centers, and online. Similar crimes are also reportedly committed by some opposition armed groups.

Serious risks remain for women and girls in Rakhine Statefrom among the Rohingya people, the statement said.

In July 2025, the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar reported that evidence gathering was ongoing. crimes related to armed conflict, including rape with various objects and gang rapes against civilians of different ages and genders.

"The scale and brutality of sexual violence in Myanmar is shocking," Patten said, calling on the country's commander-in-chief and representatives of all parties to the conflict to immediately stop such crimes and hold those responsible accountable. The Special Representative recalled that since 2017, the Myanmar armed forces have been included in the annex to the Secretary-General's annual report on conflict-related sexual violence as a party credibly suspected of committing rape and other forms of sexual violence.

Entrenched impunity

Patten added that entrenched impunity in Myanmar emboldens perpetrators and deprives victims of the opportunity to seek justice. The Special Representative emphasized the need for accountability for crimes committed by all armed forces, including since the military coup.

Proceedings in the International Court of Justice Gambia v. MyanmarThe report, concerning Myanmar's failure to comply with its obligations under the Genocide Convention against the Rohingya people, serves as a reminder that grave violations, including sexual violence, remain a focus of the international community. "I call on states to support efforts to bring those responsible for these heinous crimes to justice in independent and impartial courts and recommend that the Security Council refer the situation in Myanmar to the International Criminal Court," Patten said.

Consequences of violence

Survivors of conflict-related sexual violence in Myanmar face severe and long-lasting consequences, as well as significant barriers to accessing care. They are subject to repression and stigma, and due to a lack of funding, they often don't receive the services they need.

Displaced persons from Myanmar in Asia also face difficulties accessing assistance due to their legal status and fear of arrest and deportation. The Special Representative noted the exceptional dedication and resilience of Myanmar women, members of the LGBTQI community, and local organizations, who, despite enormous challenges, continue to provide support to victims.

“I call on the international community to keep Myanmar a priority and mobilize all possible political, diplomatic, technical and financial support to ensure that survivors of sexual violence and affected communities have access to the medical, psychosocial, economic, educational and social assistance they need to rebuild their lives,” Patten said.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

The UN has confirmed the death and injury of civilian mine workers as a result of an attack in eastern Ukraine.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: United Nations – United Nations –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

February 2, 2026 Peace and security

A drone strike in the town of Ternivka, Dnipropetrovsk region of Ukraine, killed and wounded mine workers returning home after their shift. The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission (HRMMU) reported this. Mission staff visited the scene and interviewed eyewitnesses.

According to local authorities, 12 civilians were killed and 16 others were injured in the attack.

Coal mine workers were traveling on a bus on their regular route from the mine in the Pavlograd district through Ternovka—approximately 65 kilometers from the front line—when Russian drones struck the bus. The explosions shattered the windows and shrapnel struck the bus, killing and injuring the passengers. People in other nearby vehicles and those who rushed to help the victims of the initial blast were also reportedly injured.

"Miners, like all civilians, must be able to go to work and return home without fear," said HRMMU Director Daniel Bell. "This incident demonstrates the danger civilians face when fighting affects everyday life—far beyond the active combat zone."

At the site of the attack, UN personnel recorded two craters—one in front of and one behind the destroyed bus—as well as visible debris from the drones used in the strikes. One witness reported seeing a drone and then hearing a series of explosions.

The injured miner told UN human rights activists that after the first explosion, he climbed out of the bus through the window, hearing the screams of those remaining inside, and then a second explosion occurred a few minutes later.

"This is all wrong," he told representatives of the HRMMU. "We're ordinary miners. People were simply returning home to their families."

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

EXPLAIN | How the UN is combating organized crime at borders

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: United Nations – United Nations –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

February 1, 2026 Peace and security

The volume of global trade, which the UN describes as "an engine of inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction," reached a record $33 trillion in 2024. At the heart of this extensive system are seaports and airports—key hubs through which the majority of global trade flows pass.

According to the World Economic Forum, over 90 percent of global trade is carried in containers, with more than 860 million units shipped annually. Air cargo, which accounts for approximately 35 percent of global trade by value, is also growing rapidly: in 2024, its volume increased by more than 10 percent compared to the previous year.

However, cross-border trade, so vital to global economic stability, remains vulnerable to organized crime and terrorist groups that use international routes to smuggle weapons, drugs, people and other illicit goods.

This article explains why effective border controls are critical to the security and sustainability of the global economy, and how the UN helps countries protect trade and travel.

How criminal groups exploit borders

Border crossings often become entry points for illegal goods—from weapons and drugs to counterfeit medicines, cultural artifacts, and counterfeit goods. They can also be used by criminals themselves, including drug traffickers and terrorists.

Criminals conceal contraband in containers, luggage, and even on the bodies of carriers. Criminal networks bribe border officials, customs officials, and logistics companies to ensure illegal shipments pass undetected. More sophisticated criminals hack port systems or use counterfeit codes to reroute cargo to their desired destinations.

Why is this important?

Insufficient border management capabilities and weak cross-border cooperation create dangerous gaps in trade routes. Criminal networks quickly adapt, merge with other groups, and find new ways to move goods and people, threatening the security of states and consumers.

Effective border control protects public health by restricting the flow of illicit drugs and preventing the distribution of counterfeit medications. It also increases legal revenue for states by supporting legitimate trade and depriving criminal networks of financial resources.

A robust control system prevents chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons from falling into the hands of terrorists and blocks the smuggling of chemical precursors used to produce drugs and explosives. It also helps prevent the illegal trade in wildlife and the movement of hazardous waste, reducing pressure on ecosystems and risks to human health.

What does the UN do?

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), together with the World Customs Organization and Interpol, helps countries strengthen control over air, sea, and land borders. As part of this work, 192 national cargo and passenger control units have been established in 89 countries.

These units conduct risk assessments, identify and intercept high-risk passengers, cargo, and mail. They ensure coordination between countries of origin, transit, and destination, and collaborate with the private sector to disrupt illicit cross-border flows and criminal networks.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

South Sudan: 'All the conditions for a humanitarian catastrophe are present'

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: United Nations – United Nations –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

January 30, 2026 Peace and security

Military tensions between government forces and opposition groups in South Sudan are "rapidly escalating." Speaking at a press briefing at UN headquarters in New York on Friday, Acting Head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Anita Kiki Gbeho, saidJonglei State has become a "hotbed of tension", where civilians find themselves caught in the crossfire.

More than 200,000 people have been forced to flee their homes this month as a result of the conflict, according to the UN representative, who also serves as the Resident Coordinator in the country.

She also warned of the spread of cholera. This month alone, over 500 cases have been registered across the country. Meanwhile, treatment centers are overcrowded and lacking medications and other essential supplies.

Difficulties in delivering aid

Although humanitarian operations continue, access is hampered by road and river restrictions, hindering aid delivery and medical evacuations.

The world's youngest state gained independence in 2011, but soon descended into civil war. Clashes erupted between forces loyal to the national army led by President Salva Kiir and supporters of the main opposition leader, Riek Machar, who is currently on trial on serious charges, including murder, which he denies.

After the opposition achieved some gains, government forces launched an offensive in three counties in Jonglei State this week. All civilians and humanitarian workers were urged to evacuate.

Humanitarian facilities were looted

According to Gbeho, "humanitarian facilities are being looted and destroyed (including at least seven in Jonglei), and humanitarian workers are being intimidated." UN peacekeepers are also facing similar difficulties.

The disruption of aid deliveries and peacebuilding efforts is affecting civilians. UNMISS warns that "all the conditions for a humanitarian catastrophe are present."

Speaking via video link from South Sudan, Gbeho stressed that despite the release of $10 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund, "more assistance is needed."

Restore peace

Despite the acute shortage of resources, the priority remains "ending the fighting, protecting civilians and preserving the peace process," as well as working with the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development to "restore commitment to the 2018 peace agreement."

Recalling about in the words of the UN Secretary-GeneralGbeho emphasized that "the solution to the current crisis must be political, not military." She called on South Sudan's leaders to take "urgent action to end the fighting, reduce tensions through inclusive dialogue, and return to consensus-based decision-making."

The Defining Moment

In conclusion, Gbeho emphasized that only the South Sudanese themselves can change the situation for the better.

She called the current stage "a defining moment—a critical crossroads for South Sudan." According to the head of the UN mission, decisions made now could lead the country either to peace or to further escalation of the conflict.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

The President of the UN General Assembly calls on the parties to the conflicts to agree to an Olympic Truce.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: United Nations – United Nations –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

January 30, 2026 UN

The Winter Olympics begin in Italy on February 6. UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock called on all warring parties to agree to a "mutual ceasefire" during the sporting events, in accordance with the ancient principle of the Olympic Truce.

"The Olympic Truce proves that even in times of discord, humanity can still find common ground through sport," Baerbock said.

"I call on all parties involved in ongoing armed conflicts around the world to show resolve and agree to a genuine mutual ceasefire for the duration of the Olympic Truce," she added.

Baerbock recalled the ancient Greek tradition of ekecheiria, which translates as "Olympic truce." She called it "the sacred principle of the Olympic Games."

The former German Foreign Minister referred to General Assembly resolution, which calls on countries to observe a ceasefire from the seventh day before the start of the Winter Olympic Games until the seventh day after the end of the Winter Paralympic Games.

"Through friendly competition, we can overcome differences," Baerbock said.

She noted that the upcoming Games will be the most gender-balanced in history. The General Assembly President also added that the International Olympic Committee has decided to raise the UN flag at the Olympic stadium and in the Olympic villages as a symbol of peace.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

The Syria Inquiry Commission welcomes the ceasefire agreement in the northeast.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: United Nations – United Nations –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

January 30, 2026 International law

The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria welcomed the ceasefire agreement between the Syrian government and the Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which controlled the northeast of the country.

The need to comply with international law

"We welcome efforts to bring stability to the region and now hope for a complete cessation of hostilities," said commission chairman Paulo Pinheiro.

“In this regard, we also welcome the recent decree of the Syrian President recognizing the cultural, linguistic and civil rights of the Kurdish population of Syria,” he added.

The Commission called on all parties to ensure strict compliance with international humanitarian law and to protect civilians.

"We are alarmed by reports of the killing of fighters who laid down their arms and other civilians, as well as the desecration of the bodies of those killed," said commission spokesperson Monia Ammar. She noted that the commission is investigating the alleged violations.

Experts also stress the need to ensure unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to the civilian population and allow civilians to move freely.

The situation of children

The commission is concerned about the situation of children in the region. Cold winter weather—combined with lack of access to electricity, water, food, and heating—could have catastrophic consequences for the population. The experts, in particular, recalled cases of infants dying of exposure in camps for displaced persons in northeastern Syria, including in Ain al-Arab (Kobani).

The situation of detainees, particularly children, amid the shift in control of detention facilities is also deeply concerning. After the Al-Aqtan prison near Raqqa, where individuals suspected of being affiliated with the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS) were held, came under government control, the commission received reports that over 100 children were being held there arbitrarily and subjected to cruel treatment.

The experts also expressed concern about the situation of more than 17,000 children and young people arbitrarily detained in the Al-Hol and Al-Rauj camps and in “rehabilitation centers” such as Khuri and Urkesh.

The Commission calls on countries to repatriate children who are their citizens from northeastern Syria.

Regarding the detained alleged former ISIS fighters, the commission recalled the right of all detainees to a fair trial and called for prompt, effective, transparent and impartial investigations, particularly into those acts that may constitute war crimes.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

January has been a month of extreme weather, from record snowfalls to heat waves.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: United Nations – United Nations –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

January 30, 2026 Climate and environment

Extreme heat, severe frosts, and torrential rains have made January 2026 a month of extreme weather conditions. This underscores the importance of accurate forecasts and investment in early warning systems, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) stated.

Natural phenomena causing serious human casualties, economic losses and environmental damage were recorded in all regions of the world.

"It's no surprise that extreme weather consistently ranks among the top risks in the World Economic Forum's annual Global Threats Report. The number of people affected by weather and climate disasters is growing year on year, and in January, we saw their tragic consequences literally every day," said WMO Director Celeste Saulo.

She recalled that in countries with effective early warning mechanisms, mortality from natural disasters is six times lower, which makes Early Warning Systems for All initiative particularly relevant.

Frosts and winter storms

Although the frequency of severe cold events has been declining globally since 1950, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), this does not preclude isolated severe cold snaps. A weakening of the polar vortex has facilitated the intrusion of Arctic air into mid-latitudes, causing severe frosts in North America, Europe, and Asia. This is a large area of cold air and strong winds that typically circulates around the Arctic in the upper atmosphere and sometimes weakens, allowing Arctic cold to spread southward.

Read also:

A powerful winter storm also struck Canada and the United States in late January, causing widespread power outages, flight cancellations, and loss of life. The US National Weather Service warned that by January 31, a new wave of Arctic cold would spread south through the Plains states, the Great Lakes region, and the southeastern and eastern regions of the country.

At the same time, some meteorological forecasts indicate that stratospheric warming over the Arctic could lead to a significant weakening of the polar vortex in early February, which, in turn, will create conditions for a new invasion of Arctic air into North America and Northern Europe in the second half of the month.

Heavy rains and floods

Europe experienced a series of storms with heavy rainfall, winds, and flooding, from Ireland and the UK to the Mediterranean. Meteorological services warned of continued increased rainfall in northwestern Europe and the Mediterranean.

The situation is particularly dire in southern Africa. According to Mozambique's national authorities, floods have affected at least 650 thousand peopleHundreds of thousands were forced to flee their homes, and approximately 30,000 homes were damaged or destroyed. South Africa declared a national disaster after torrential rains claimed dozens of lives.

Heat and fires

Australia experienced two heatwaves in one month. In the city of Ceduna, the temperature reached 49.5 degrees Celsius – a record for the area. Scientists note that climate change intensified the January heatwave by approximately 1.6 degrees.

In Chile, wildfires have killed at least 21 people, and tens of thousands have been evacuated. Fires have also engulfed southern Argentina. According to the IPCC report, human-induced climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of heat waves since the mid-20th century.

The role of early warnings

WMO is stepping up its efforts to combat the impacts of extreme heat and other weather-related hazards, including through joint initiatives with the World Health Organization.

As experts emphasize, January 2026 became another reminder: investments in early warning, climate resilience and disaster preparedness save lives.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.