Focus On
MIDDLE EAST LIVE 10 March: Displacement, supply shocks and civilian toll rise
The conflict in the Middle East continues, with strikes and counter-strikes across the region and the humanitarian toll mounting. UN agencies warn that rising civilian casualties, mass displacement – particularly in Lebanon – and damage to critical infrastructure are deepening the crisis, while disruptions to shipping and energy routes risk driving up global prices and worsening food insecurity. Stay with us for updates from across the United Nations system.
International Women’s Day | Hear Her Story: Celine Schmitt
Women in humanitarian work often make difficult decisions about working in the field. “I am inspired by all the women and mothers I see in Syria.” Céline Schmitt, spokesperson for the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) in Syria. Hear her story.
Celebrating the 20-Year Legacy of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance - 9.03.26
On 20 December 2026, the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance;turns 20. Before the celebrations begin, here’s a refresher on enforced disappearances, the legacy of the Convention and the Committee that oversees its implementation.
#3Minutes | Protecting everyone, everywhere from enforced disappearance - 9.03.25
Hundreds of thousands of people have vanished around the world as victims of enforced disappearance. For families of victims, the uncertainty is devastating. Days turn into months or even years without answers about what happened or where their loved one is being held. In less than 3 minutes, find out how the UN works to prevent and eradicate this horrendous crime and support victims and their families.
Happening at UN Geneva
Committee on Enforced Disappearances (CED)
The Committee on Enforced Disappearances (CED) is the body of independent experts which monitors the implementation of the Convention for the Protection of all Persons against Enforced Disappearance by the States parties.
The Committee and its Secretariat work daily to support victims, civil society organizations, National Human Rights Institutions and States to search for and locate disappeared persons, eradicate, punish and prevent this crime, and repair the damage suffered by the victims.
Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)
The Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is the body of independent experts which monitors implementation of the Convention by the States parties.
Worldwide, there are an estimated one billion people with disabilities. Through its engagement and cooperation with States parties, the Committee promotes inclusion, advocates for the human rights of all persons with disabilities, and provides recommendations to support the implementation of the provisions enshrined in the Convention.
Human Rights Committee (CCPR)
The Human Rights Committee is the body of independent experts that monitors implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights by its States parties.
The Committee's work promotes the enjoyment of civil and political rights, resulting in numerous changes of law, policy and practice. As such, it has improved the lives of individuals in all parts of the world. It continues to strive to ensure all the civil and political rights guaranteed by the Covenant can be enjoyed in full and without discrimination, by all people.
61st regular session of the Human Rights Council
The Human Rights Council is the main intergovernmental body within the United Nations responsible for human rights. Established in 2006 by the General Assembly, it is responsible for strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights around the globe.
The Council, composed of 47 Member States, provides a multilateral forum to address human rights violations and country situations. It responds to human rights emergencies and makes recommendations on how to better implement human rights on the ground.
