The UN Security Council approved a resolution focused on Libya’s oil sanctions, while UN aid efforts are underway in Mozambique following devastating cyclones. WHO is preparing to assist Tanzania amidst Marburg virus reports, and concerns are raised over human rights abuses in Türkiye against activists under counter-terrorism laws.
On Thursday, the UN Security Council renewed the mandate of the Panel of Experts (PoE) associated with the Libya Sanctions Committee, extending measures against illicit petroleum exports from Libya. The resolution, proposed by the United Kingdom, passed with 14 votes in favor and no objections, while Russia abstained. New provisions were introduced regarding arms embargoes and asset freezes targeting individuals involved in the unlawful exploitation of Libya’s oil resources.
In Mozambique, UN aid teams are actively supporting communities devastated by two recent cyclones, with Tropical Cyclone Chido causing the majority of destruction. Hitting the Cabo Delgado province on December 15, the cyclone claimed 120 lives and wounded over 800. Over 400,000 individuals were affected, and with a second cyclone event occurring shortly after, food security remains a critical concern for the nation.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is preparing to assist Tanzania in response to suspected cases of the Marburg virus, a serious viral hemorrhagic fever. Following reports from the Kagera region, WHO mobilizes resources and expert support to facilitate national investigations. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO’s Regional Director for Africa, expressed readiness to help ensure effective responses to this health emergency.
In Türkiye, Special Rapporteur Mary Lawlor raised serious concerns regarding the detention of nine human rights defenders, charged under counter-terrorism laws. She criticized the arbitrary arrests, stating that the ongoing suppression of dissent violates Türkiye’s international human rights obligations. Lawlor emphasized the continued importance of fair trial standards and due process in the treatment of these individuals.
The UN Security Council’s resolution on Libya aims to enhance efforts to control illicit oil exports, addressing ongoing issues stemming from the sanctions imposed following the 2011 ousting of Muammar Gaddafi. The humanitarian response in Mozambique highlights the challenges of recovering from severe weather events, exacerbated by ongoing food insecurity. The WHO’s response to the Marburg virus in Tanzania underlines global efforts to prevent viral outbreaks, while the concerns raised regarding Türkiye’s human rights issues reflect a larger pattern of repression against activists.
In summary, the UN Security Council has taken significant steps to address Libya’s oil smuggling issues, while Mozambique faces an urgent humanitarian crisis following cyclones. The WHO is poised to support Tanzania amid health threats from Marburg virus cases, and serious concerns remain regarding human rights abuses in Türkiye, necessitating international attention and action.
Original Source: news.un.org
