to show the world to the world
Introduction In an era where information is at our fingertips, the importance of preserving historical records cannot be overstated. The United Nations, as a global organization dedicated to maintaining peace and fostering development, has amassed a wealth of audiovisual material over its 75 years of existence. These records provide invaluable insights into the evolution of…
Introduction At the halfway point to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the world faces significant challenges that threaten the progress made toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The war in Ukraine, coupled with sharp increases in food and energy prices, and rapidly tightening financial conditions, has exacerbated global hunger and poverty. Vulnerable countries…
Introduction In rural Gambia, where agriculture forms the backbone of the economy, communities face a multitude of challenges that hinder development and exacerbate poverty. The effects of climate change, particularly the increased frequency and intensity of flooding during the rainy season, have made life increasingly difficult for villagers. Floodwaters often inundate farmlands, destroy homes, and…
Introduction In The Gambia, a small West African nation, agriculture is the lifeblood of rural communities, with the majority of the population relying on farming as their primary source of livelihood. However, the challenges facing Gambian farmers are immense. Limited access to resources, outdated farming practices, and the increasingly unpredictable effects of climate change have…
Introduction In The Gambia, a nation largely reliant on imported food, the agricultural sector faces significant challenges, including limited crop diversity and reliance on outdated practices. Yet, a new generation of young farmers is emerging as a catalyst for change. These young entrepreneurs are stepping into the spotlight, driven by a passion for innovation and…
Introduction In the heart of central Gambia, agriculture plays a crucial role in the livelihoods of rural communities. Here, farmers like Bintou Nije and her neighbors have traditionally relied on small-scale farming to feed their families and earn a modest income. However, life for these smallholder farmers has never been easy. Limited access to water,…
Introduction Armed conflicts have long been a source of devastation, but their impact on children is particularly harrowing. In 2022, the United Nations verified over 27,000 grave violations against children, affecting nearly 19,000 boys and girls across 24 countries and one regional situation, highlighting the disproportionate burden borne by the youngest and most vulnerable. This…
Introduction Aspartame, a widely used artificial sweetener, has been a subject of debate for decades due to concerns about its potential health risks. The sweetener, first approved for use in the 1980s, has been a popular sugar substitute in a variety of food and beverage products, including diet sodas, chewing gum, yogurt, and even some…
Introduction The world is teetering on the edge of a massive humanitarian crisis as acute hunger continues to plague millions. According to the World Food Programme (WFP), 345 million people are acutely food insecure, a number that has reached unprecedented levels. The WFP, an essential lifeline for many, is now confronting a “crippling funding crisis,”…
Introduction Sudan, a nation with a history deeply scarred by conflict and political instability, is now grappling with a humanitarian crisis that has reached unprecedented levels. The outbreak of violent conflict on April 15, 2023, has escalated the situation into a full-blown catastrophe, with children bearing the brunt of the devastation. This article delves into…
Introduction As we approach the midpoint in the global effort to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030, the recent Universal Health Coverage Global Monitoring Report reveals a stark reality: progress has nearly ground to a halt. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Bank, more than half of the world’s population—approximately…
Introduction Africa stands at a critical juncture in its quest for sustainable development, grappling with multiple challenges that threaten to derail its progress. The continent is burdened by a growing debt crisis, the impacts of climate change, and the shrinking fiscal space needed to implement essential policies. These issues are not isolated but are deeply…
Introduction World Humanitarian Day, observed annually on August 19, holds a deep significance in the global community. It is a day set aside to honor humanitarian workers who risk their lives in the service of others, and to rally support for people affected by crises worldwide. World Humanitarian Day, observed annually on August 19, holds…
Introduction In April 2023, India officially overtook China to become the world’s most populous country, marking a significant demographic milestone with far-reaching implications. This historic shift is not just about numbers; it reflects broader social, economic, and environmental trends that will shape the future of both nations and the world. Understanding the factors driving this…
Introduction Period poverty, the lack of access to menstrual products and hygiene education, is a significant but often overlooked issue affecting women and girls worldwide. In The Gambia, this problem is particularly severe, especially in rural areas like Basse in the Upper River Region, where many women and girls cannot afford sanitary pads during their…
Introduction Thailand has long grappled with the complex and deeply rooted issue of drug use, a challenge that continues to evolve with shifting social, economic, and political dynamics. Among the substances that have posed significant problems in recent years, crystal methamphetamine, locally known as “ya ba” or “crazy drug,” stands out as a particularly destructive…
Introduction In Afghanistan, the issue of drug use is intertwined with a complex web of social, economic, and political challenges. The 2023 World Drug Report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) highlights a critical aspect of this issue: the stigma and discrimination faced by individuals who use drugs. This report comes…
Introduction Indigenous peoples are the original inhabitants of regions around the world, holding a unique connection to their land, culture, and traditions. Often marginalized and facing numerous challenges, these communities have preserved their distinct identities for generations. Indigenous peoples are not just remnants of the past but are vibrant communities contributing to global diversity. This…
Introduction The Central African Republic (CAR) remains one of the most complex and protracted humanitarian crises in the world. Since gaining independence in 1960, the country has been plagued by political instability, armed conflict, and economic decline, leading to widespread suffering among its population. The ongoing violence, compounded by poverty and weak governance, has created…
Introduction In 2015, world leaders came together to adopt the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, a comprehensive blueprint aimed at addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were designed to tackle issues ranging from poverty and hunger to gender equality and climate action. These goals represented a global…
Introduction On November 15, 2022, the world marked a historic milestone as the global population reached 8 billion people. This remarkable achievement is a testament to human progress in areas such as public health, medicine, and social development. However, it also brings with it a host of challenges and opportunities that demand our collective attention…
Introduction More than a year after the military coup on February 1, 2021, Myanmar remains engulfed in turmoil. The situation has not only failed to stabilize but has worsened with widespread violence, political instability, and economic collapse. The country is struggling under the weight of internal conflict, displacement, poverty, and human rights abuses, painting a…
Introduction The concept of net-zero emissions has become a central focus in global climate action, particularly as the world grapples with the escalating threat of climate change. Achieving net-zero emissions, where the amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere is balanced by the amount removed, is seen as a crucial step in limiting global…
Introduction The devastating impact of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) remains a global crisis despite significant strides in mine action over the past decades. On the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, the United Nations underscores the progress achieved in clearing affected areas and assisting victims while highlighting the ongoing challenges…
Introduction The Horn of Africa, a region historically plagued by climate-induced challenges, is once again facing the harsh reality of drought. As the region grapples with the aftermath of three consecutive failed rainy seasons, the World Food Program (WFP) has raised alarm over the growing risk of famine. Michael Dunford, the WFP’s Regional Director for…
Introduction The situation of women and girls in Afghanistan has drastically deteriorated since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021. Almost a year after their reinstatement, Afghan women and girls are facing severe restrictions on their rights and freedoms. These developments not only underscore the precariousness of gender equality in conflict zones but also…
Introduction Education is often associated with reading, writing, and arithmetic. However, for children living in conflict-affected and crisis environments, education plays a far more critical role. Education Cannot Wait (ECW)—the UN global fund dedicated to education in emergencies—underscores that education is not merely about academic achievement. Instead, its reports highlight that education must create a…
Introduction In August 2022, Victor Madrigal-Borloz, the United Nations Independent Expert on sexual orientation and gender identity, conducted an official visit to the United States to assess the human rights conditions of the LGBT community. Madrigal-Borloz’s findings highlighted both progress and significant ongoing challenges in protecting and promoting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender,…
Introduction Gender equality, a fundamental human right and one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, remains an elusive target. A recent report published by UN Women and the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) paints a concerning picture of the state of gender equality worldwide. If…
Introduction In a world where education is often viewed as a fundamental human right, the disparity in access to quality education for refugee children remains a critical issue. A recent report by the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), titled “All Inclusive: The Campaign for Refugee Education,” has highlighted the alarming educational inequities faced by refugee children…
Introduction Climate change represents one of the most profound threats to humanity, impacting not only the natural environment but also the fundamental human rights of millions around the world. As global temperatures rise, extreme weather events become more frequent, and ecosystems deteriorate, the most vulnerable populations bear the brunt of these changes. This article delves…
Introduction The stark reality of climate change is becoming increasingly apparent as new records for greenhouse gas concentrations are continuously broken. The World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) Greenhouse Gas Bulletin for 2021 paints a grim picture of our planet’s future, revealing record levels of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide—the three primary greenhouse gases responsible for…
Introduction Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world’s most deadly infectious diseases, causing immense human suffering and death, particularly in the world’s most vulnerable populations. Despite significant global efforts to combat TB, the disease continues to wreak havoc, especially in regions afflicted by conflict and instability. The complex interplay between TB and conflict exacerbates the…
Introduction Water scarcity in Tanzania’s villages and remote areas has become a critical challenge, deeply affecting the livelihoods and well-being of local communities. In these regions, access to clean and reliable water sources is increasingly limited due to a combination of climate change, population growth, and environmental degradation. The scarcity of water not only threatens…
Introduction Mozambique faces significant challenges in maternal health, marked by high rates of maternal mortality and widespread child marriage. These issues are deeply interconnected, with child marriage often leading to early pregnancies that pose severe health risks, reflecting broader socio-economic and cultural dynamics that impact women and girls across the nation. In a country where…
Introduction Ethiopia’s struggle with child mortality is a poignant chapter in the nation’s history, reflecting both enduring challenges and remarkable progress in the realm of public health. For many years, Ethiopia faced alarmingly high rates of child mortality, driven by a complex interplay of factors including poverty, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and social challenges. These challenges…
Introduction South Africa’s rhino population has long been at the heart of a conservation crisis. The persistent threat of poaching, fueled by the black market demand for rhino horn, especially in emerging Asian economies, has pushed these majestic creatures to the brink. Despite concerted conservation efforts, the stark reality remains: at least one rhino is…
Introduction India’s sanitation crisis has been a major public health issue for decades, deeply rooted in the country’s history and development. Until recently, the absence of proper sanitation facilities was a pervasive problem, particularly in rural areas where traditional practices and inadequate infrastructure led to widespread health challenges. The “No Toilet, No Bride” movement emerged…
Introduction In January 2010, a catastrophic earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale struck Haiti, forever changing the lives of its people. The epicenter, near the capital city of Port-au-Prince, led to one of the deadliest natural disasters in recent history. The quake claimed over 220,000 lives, injured more than 300,000 people, and left approximately…
Introduction On October 9, 2012, a young girl named Malala Yousafzai was on her way home from school in the Swat Valley of Pakistan when her life changed forever. A Taliban gunman boarded her school bus, asked for her by name, and shot her in the head at point-blank range. The reason? Malala had been…
Introduction Nestled in the extreme north of Greenland, a solitary outpost in Qaanaaq stands as a silent guardian against one of humanity’s gravest threats: nuclear explosions. At this remote station, a single operator tirelessly monitors the world for atomic activity, using advanced infrasound technology. Surrounded by the stark beauty of the Arctic landscape, this station…
Introduction In today’s rapidly advancing technological world, keeping pace with the latest gadgets and devices has become a norm. However, in parts of the world like Ghana, the constant upgrade cycle of digital technology is causing serious and often overlooked environmental and health problems. Dubbed as a “digital graveyard,” Ghana has become one of the…
Introduction Imagine living in a world where even the smallest fall or accidental bump could shatter your bones like glass. For millions of children around the world, this is a daily reality due to a rare condition known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), often referred to as “brittle bone disease.” This genetic disorder causes bones to…
Introduction In Russia, people with disabilities face significant challenges and discrimination daily, with their rights often ignored or violated. This lack of accessibility and inclusion affects millions, ranging from difficulties in accessing public transportation to the simple act of entering a building. These issues are not just inconveniences; they represent a denial of fundamental human…
Introduction In Afghanistan, child marriage remains a deeply entrenched practice, reflecting broader issues of gender inequality and human rights abuses. The custom of marrying off girls at a young age is not only a violation of their rights but also a significant barrier to their education, health, and personal development. This article explores the historical…
Introduction Ethiopia, a country of rich history and cultural diversity, faces persistent challenges in securing fundamental resources such as water. With a diverse landscape that includes highlands, lowlands, and arid regions, access to water has long been a critical issue affecting millions of Ethiopians. This scarcity impacts various aspects of life, including health, education, and…
Introduction South Sudan, the world’s youngest country, emerged from decades of protracted civil war to gain independence from Sudan in July 2011. The birth of this new nation was hailed as a beacon of hope for millions who had suffered through years of conflict. However, the jubilation of independence was overshadowed by the grim legacy…
Introduction The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, is renowned for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and resilient population. However, this Southeast Asian nation is also one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, frequently battered by typhoons, earthquakes, and other natural calamities. For many Filipino women and girls, the challenges of surviving…
Introduction In 2006, as astronaut Marcos Pontes gazed down upon the Amazon rainforest from his vantage point in space, he was struck by the vastness and beauty of the world’s largest tropical rainforest. The view from above, however, also revealed the vulnerability of this critical ecosystem, threatened by deforestation, climate change, and unsustainable development practices….
Introduction The vast network of global trade is a cornerstone of the modern economy, with hundreds of millions of containers crisscrossing the world’s oceans each year, transporting goods that keep the global marketplace thriving. From consumer electronics to agricultural products, these containers carry the essentials of daily life across borders and continents. However, hidden among…
Introduction The vast expanse of the Western and Central Pacific Ocean is home to one of the world’s most important natural resources: tuna. This fish, revered for its cultural significance and economic value, plays a vital role in the lives of the people living in Pacific island nations. Tuna is not just a staple in…
Introduction Human trafficking is often referred to as modern-day slavery, a term that starkly captures the brutal realities faced by millions of people across the globe. It is one of the most profitable illegal industries, generating billions of dollars annually while ensnaring vulnerable individuals, particularly women and children, in a web of exploitation. Among the…
Introduction Oceans cover more than 70% of our planet’s surface and are essential to life on Earth, playing a critical role in regulating the climate, providing food, and supporting biodiversity. For about one billion people, seafood is a primary source of animal protein, making the health of marine ecosystems crucial for global food security. However,…
Introduction Vietnam, a country known for its lush landscapes and bustling cities, holds a critical position in the global agricultural economy. As the world’s second-largest exporter of rice, Vietnam plays a crucial role in feeding millions across Asia and beyond. The majority of this rice is grown in the Mekong Delta, a vast floodplain that…
Introduction In Nepal, a country renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the struggle for proper sanitation has long been a significant challenge. For decades, many rural communities have relied on open defecation due to a lack of infrastructure and resources. This practice has contributed to widespread health issues and affected the dignity…
Introduction In recent years, Lima, the bustling capital of Peru, has emerged as a global gastronomic epicenter, drawing international acclaim for its innovative cuisine. This culinary renaissance is not merely about creating new dishes but about reconnecting with Peru’s rich agricultural heritage. Top chefs in Lima are turning to ancient crops, cultivated by smallholder farmers,…
Introduction Somalia, a nation renowned for its extensive coastline along the Indian Ocean, has long possessed a wealth of marine resources. Yet, decades of civil war, political instability, and the collapse of central governance have severely disrupted its fishing industry. Fishermen once dependent on the bountiful seas have struggled to maintain their livelihoods amidst ongoing…
Introduction In the heart of Sub-Saharan Africa, a silent tragedy has unfolded over the past few decades, leaving millions of children orphaned by the devastating impact of AIDS. The scale of this crisis is staggering: more than 16 million children worldwide have lost one or both parents to AIDS, and a staggering 14 million of…
Introduction In the mid-1970s, a dark chapter unfolded in South America, shrouding the continent in fear and repression. Under the code name “Operation Condor,” the dictatorships of six countries—Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Brazil—collaborated to eliminate political dissidents and perceived threats to their regimes. This covert operation, sanctioned by the United States during the…
Introduction Portugal, a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, is facing a silent crisis: the emigration of its youth. In recent years, Portugal has seen a significant exodus of young, highly educated individuals seeking better opportunities abroad. With nearly two in five young people unemployed, many of the country’s brightest graduates…