While the 90-day initial break on so-called “reciprocal” rates offered a certain relief compared to the expected increases of up to 50%, the United States has rather imposed a basic tariff of 10%, added in addition to existing tasks. This means that many countries-especially development economies-have faced higher costs exporting goods to the United States.

The price suspension, which originally expires, has now been extended until August 1, extending uncertainty, told Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director of the International Shopping Center (ITC), during a regular press briefing at the United Nations Bureau in Geneva (UNOG).

She warned this decision adding to a “double shock” of assembly of the increase in commercial restrictions and deep cuts with development aid, which strike the most harsh developing countries.

ITC is a joint United Nations United Nations United Nations (WTO) trade agency supporting businesses in developing countries.

Real consequences

“” Economic uncertainty has real consequences on countries and sectors“Said Ms. Coke-Hamilton, citing the volatility of gold and precious metals flow like a case.

After the United States has exempted these products from new prices, commercial volumes have increased-with imports of gold in Switzerland up 800% in annual shift in May, based on American import data.

Coke-Hamilton said that since the start of the year, ITC has followed more than 150 new restrictive trade measures worldwide.

A superimposed on the disturbances of the existing global trade since the start of the war in Ukraine, the resulting tension had a disproportionate impact in the least developed countries (PMA), which are often confronted with the steepest prices and the narrowest budgetary space to respond.

A “perfect storm” is preparing

Lesotho, for example, faces a 50% price on clothing exports to the United States, threatening its largest industry and tens of thousands of jobs. The Viet Nam, although having negotiated a lower rate, faces a 20% levy-double the current reference rate-potentially reshaping its $ 937 million to automatic trade and car linked with the United States.

Coke-Hamilton has also reported concerns about development funding reductions, noting that G7 countries should reduce assistance spending by 28% next year-the greatest drop in five decades.

“” A perfect storm is preparing – just as trade becomes more unpredictable, external support thanks to help also reduces“She said.

Navigate the challenges

To answer, it urged developing countries to focus on three strategic responses: strengthen regional value chains, invest in added value to reduce dependence on basic products and prioritize small businesses.

“” Stability can come from the ground“She said.

“” Although uncertainties are in advance both in the landscapes of trade and aid, developing countries can always find ways not only to deal with these challenges, but to play an active role in the implementation of greater stability.“”

The warning, published jointly by the United Nations agencies and the regional socio-economic Saarc on Wednesday, underlines the status of South Asia as a “world epicenter” of anemia among adolescent girls and women.

It is estimated that 259 million already suffers from the condition, which alters the body’s ability to transport oxygen, contributing to chronic fatigue, poor maternal results and the reduction of educational and economic participation.

“” This is a call for Clarion actionSaid Sanjay Wijsekera, regional director of the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef), which with the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) and Saarc have prepared the analysis.

“” When half of all adolescent girls and women in South Asia are anemic, it is not only a health problem – it is a signal that systems fail them.“”

A very large but avoidable condition

Anemia does not only affect women and girls – it contributes 40% of low -world birth weights in the world and affects children’s growth and learning, especially in the poorest households.

The economic assessment is amazing: Anemia costs in South Asia, around $ 32.5 billion a year, perpetuating poverty cycles and poor health.

However, the condition is avoidable and treatable. The proven solutions include iron and folic acid supplementation, regimes rich in iron and vitamins, better sanitation and stronger infections and maternal health services.

Experts stress that multisectoral collaboration is essential for sustained progress.

Crucial integrated efforts

In almost all countries, progress depends on the strengthening of health systems, the expansion of nutritional programs and the achievement of adolescent girls and women in marginalized communities.

Sri Lanka, where 18.5% of reproductive women are anemic, increases its national nutrition initiative, focusing on the most affected districts.

India and Pakistan also see encouraging signs. In India, high washing states integrate iron supplementation in school and maternal care programs. Pakistan has piloted community nutrition initiatives linked to reproductive health services, allowing early detection and monitoring care.

In Bangladesh, health initiatives in schools reach adolescents with fortified meals and health education, coordinates between the Ministries of Health, Education and Agriculture.

Community -based action operates

The Maldives and Bhutan prioritize early prevention through infant nutrition campaigns, food fortification and public awareness. Although smaller in the population, the two invest in the surveillance of anemia and inter -ministerial collaboration.

Nepal is distinguished by its fair results: since 2016, the country has reduced anemia in women of reproductive age by 7%, with larger decreases in poorer areas. His women volunteers of community health are essential, providing advice and references in remote regions and linking vulnerable households to public services.

The Kumari Gurung man, a public health nurse in the province of Karnali, attributes the achievements to a range of efforts focused on the community.

“Pregnant women receive eggs, chicken and nutrients thanks to programs like Sutkeri Poshan Koseli (Nutrition gift for new mothers), “she said. »Speption in cash also helps transport in hospitals, supporting safer births and better nutrition. “”

Everyone has a role

The end of anemia requires leadership and teamwork. Governments must lead, but communities, health workers, schools and families all play a role.

Stronger health systems, better data and coordinated actions in all sectors can help girls and women reach their full potential – build healthier communities and stronger economies.

“” Young people and mothers are at the heart of the development objectives of South Asia. Ensure that they are in good health, nourished and authorized is not only a moral imperative, it is a strategic investment in the future of our companies,“Said Md. Golam Sarwar, Secretary General of Saarc.

Adopted with 116 votes in favor, 12 abstentions and 2 against (Israel and United States), The resolution highlighted the crises with multiple facets faced with Afghanistan almost four years after the return of the Taliban in powercalling for greater international support for the Afghan people and a renewed push for human rights, peace and stability.

He underlined the need for a coherent approach among humanitarian, political and development actors, and Alarm increasingly on “serious, aggravated, widespread and systematic oppression” of all women and girls in AfghanistanCalling the Taliban to quickly reverse policies that exclude them from education, employment and public life.

The text also called for membership of Afghanistan’s obligations under international law, in particular human rights and humanitarian principles.

Economic security and concerns

The general assembly of 193 members reiterated its “serious concern” in the face of continuous violence and the presence of terrorist groups such as Al-Qaida, the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Isil / Da’esh) and their affiliates Isil-Khorasan and Tehrik-E-Taliban Pakistan, and “asked” that Afghanistan has not been used as an earthly activity.

Beyond security, the resolution highlighted the severe economic collapse of Afghanistan, generalized poverty and the humanitarian crisis in a spiral, urging Member States and donors to develop principles and sustained aid.

He also highlighted the growing threat of natural disasters such as floods and droughts, which worsens food insecurity and economic fragility.

“” A sustainable and lasting peace can only be obtained by social, economic and political stability in the long term, which requires full respect for civil, political, social, economic and cultural rights as well as commitment to inclusive and representative governance, ”said resolution.

Needs an increase among refugee yields

The resolution comes at an era of intensified pressure on the overloaded humanitarian system of Afghanistan.

According to UN agencies, returns waves Pakistan and Iran – including refugees and those of refugee type situations – have increased pressure on services, especially in the border provinces poorly equipped to absorb new arrivals.

These yields, including many involuntary or under stress, have increased risks of protection and have left thousands of families with an urgent need for food, shelters and basic services.

THE 2025 humanitarian needs and response plan for Afghanistan – who is looking for $ 2.4 billion to help nearly 17 million people – is Only 22% funded In early July, raising concerns among help managers concerning the maintenance of rescue programs in the coming months.

THE The resolution called on all donors and stakeholders to “reconsider all decisions that could cause discounts In such aid, taking into account the potential humanitarian consequences for the most vulnerable populations. »»

Governance and responsibility

The Assembly also reiterated concerns about the lack of political inclusion since the Taliban takeover in August 2021.

He made the alarm on extrajudicial sanctions, such as reprisals and summary executions, forced disappearances and arbitrary detentions, including these targeting the former members of the security personnel.

Although the Assembly has recognized the limited stages of the Taliban to reduce the culture of opium, it underlined the need for measures included and efforts to combat organized crime and illicit arms trafficking.

A call for collective responsibility

The resolution expressed its assessment to the main countries of accommodation for refugees – in particular Pakistan and Iran – and has called for more equitable loading and international cooperation to support displaced Afghans and the communities that host them.

He stressed the importance of creating conditions for the safe, worthy and voluntary return of refugees and people displaced internally, as well as their lasting reintegration.

Speaking during the 17th BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he underlined the human impact of environmental devastation and climate change. And as environmental disasters are increasing, sustainable development objectives are also left behind.

“” All over the world, lives and livelihoods are torn and gains in sustainable development leave in tatters as disasters accelerate“Said Mr. Guterres.

“” The impact on human health is excruciating … Vulnerable and poor pay the highest price. »»

Brics was founded by Brazil, Russia, India and China in 2006. South Africa joined in 2011 and Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, has joined the group since. Collectively, these eleven states represent more than half of the world’s population and around a third of world GDP.

Artificial intelligence must benefit all

On Sunday, Mr. Guterres addressed a session on the strengthening of multilateralism, financial economic affairs and artificial intelligence, where he called for efforts to “minimize risks and maximize the potential” of revolutionary technology.

“” Artificial intelligence resumes economies and societies. The fundamental test is to know how wisely we will guide this transformation, how we minimize the risks and maximize the potential of good“He said.

To maximize the potential, the secretary general argued that AI cannot be “a club of a few but must benefit everyone”, calling for the “real voice” of developing countries to include in global AI governance.

He also declared that human rights and equity were to be the guiding principles that shape any international governance structure for AI.

“We cannot govern effective AI-and equitably-without confronting deeper structural imbalances in our global system,” he said.

Collaboration is the key

UN Secretary General António Guterres underlined the need for peace in the midst of conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and Myanmar.

He called for an urgent reform of global institutions, noting that bodies like the Security advice And international financial systems have been “designed for a bygone age, a overwhelming world, with a revolving system of power relations”.

“The reform of the Security Council is crucial,” he said, also highlighting calls from the recent development conference for development in Seville.

The priorities include greater votes for countries in the development of global governance, the effective restructuring of debt and triple multilateral bank loans – in particular in terms of concession and local currency.

Call to reform

Mr. Guterres concluded his remarks highlighting the power of cooperation and confidence.

“” At a time when multilateralism is undermined, let us remind the world that cooperation is the greatest innovation in humanity“He said.

“” Let us leave at this time – and reform and modernize multilateralismIncluding the UN and all systems and institutions to make it work for everyone, everywhere. »»

During the fourth year of the Invasion of Russia on a large scale in Ukraine, housing remains one of the most urgent humanitarian challenges in the country. Destruction has been widespread and in progress.

According to the latest evaluation of rapid damage and needs, 13% of the Ukrainian housing stock has been damaged since February 2022, which has an impact on around 2.5 million families.

More than buildings

In coordination with the Ukrainian authorities and partners, Hcr Invested more than $ 114 million in sustainable housing solutions since July 2022, supporting both sustainable home repairs and emergency shelter assistance.

“By helping to repair houses and apartments, we allow people to stay or return home – places that have a deep meaning, often transmitted during generations”, ” said Karolina Lindholm Billing, UKS representative in Ukraine.

“These are not only the buildings. These are precious spaces where couples have raised their children, families celebrated the milestones, neat older parents and have built their lives together, “she said.

UNHCR support includes a range of solutions: contract local manufacturers, provide building materials or provide cash assistance to owners.

Repairs may include roofs, windows, insulation and, in some cases, major reconstruction. The agency also helps to restore common areas in apartments.

Emergency shelter and long -term needs

The UNHCR also offers emergency shelter kits – the tarpaulin, wooden boards, nails and other materials – to help protect houses against additional weather damage.

Since 2022, more than 470,000 people have received such kits.

With millions still displaced internally – many areas under temporary occupation and with little return perspective – UNHCR supports wider refuge options, including the restoration of social housing, repair of rural houses and the renovation of collective centers for the most vulnerable.

The epidemic – which started in September 2024 and was confirmed a month later – comes in the midst of a prolonged humanitarian crisis Exacerbated by the increase in inter -municipal violence, climatic shocks such as catastrophic floods and hunger.

“Now, more than ever, collective action is necessary to reduce tensions, resolve political differences and make tangible progress in the implementation of peace”, ” said Anita Kiki Gbeho, United Nations resident and humanitarian coordinator in South Sudan.

Alarming climbing

Since the cholera epidemic was declared in October 2024, the United Nations agencies and partners have documented more than 80,000 cases of cholera and 1,400 deaths.

This is added to regional epidemics of MPOX, hepatitis and measles among other transmitted diseases.

The South Sudanese authorities, civil society and the United Nations agencies held an interministerial meeting on Monday to discuss what they called an “alarming escalation” in the propagation of the epidemic.

“It is not simply a public health crisis, but a multisectoral emergency exacerbated by floods, displacement and limited access to basic services,” wrote the ministers in a press release released.

The group has decided to facilitate humanitarian access without hindrance to areas that already have epidemics and other areas at risk of epidemics. The South Sudan government will coordinate these efforts.

Partners will also work in the preposition of materials, will improve water and sanitation infrastructure and coordinate proactive and reactive vaccination campaigns.

Time runs out

With the peak of the rainy season on the horizon, the following eight weeks are essential to contain and alleviate the epidemic before the start of serious floods.

“Time is gasoline to prevent a new escalation from the epidemic,” the officials wrote.

Floods over double The frequency of cholera epidemics by jeopardizing access to clean water and preventing humanitarian access to affected areas. And with the increase in global temperatures making the floods more serious, millions of South Sudanese people who were not previously in worrying regions could now be at risk of cholera epidemics.

Avoidable disease

Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by the consumption of water or contaminated food. Although highly transmitted, it is avoidable thanks to appropriate hygiene, regular hand washing, safe preparation and storage, improvement of sanitation infrastructure and vaccination.

Symptoms generally include aqueous diarrhea. Most cases are light to moderate and can be treated effectively with oral rehydration salts (gold) mixed with clean and boiled water.

However, in serious cases, cholera can be fatal – sometimes in a few hours – if not treated quickly.

Infected individuals can also transmit the disease through their faces for up to ten days, even if they have no symptoms.

Need additional funds

In South Sudan, the already inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure and the too extinguished public health system has further deteriorated following displacement and conflicts. This has matured the conditions for the spread of cholera.

The United Nations and its partners work quickly to put emergency supplies, in particular in these previously at low risk areas, but they are hampered by the financing of deficits. Agencies estimate that they will need $ 1.69 billion – of which they have only received $ 368 million – to meet the many humanitarian needs in the country.

However, the group of ministers insisted that this epidemic is and must remain a priority for all those involved.

“Cholera’s response and flood preparation must be treated as urgent national priorities,” they said in the press release.