On Monday October 12th, the UN spokesperson addressed various topics in his press briefing. Some of them were:
- Syria reported the death of 3 people, and the start of 156 wildfires which impacted more than 10,000 people.
- More generally Stéphane Dujarric spoke about climate change and the impact the pandemic had on it. He mentioned an increase in storms and natural disasters and explained that in the last 20 years 1.24 million lives were impacted by climate change.
- Zimbabwe asked for the protection of girls and women impacted by the covid-19 crisis. Gender based discriminations were noted especially in education and on the job market. The spokesperson reminded the audience that by age 19 half of the girls there are married and that it is the goal of the UN to help them access education better.
One of the person in the audience asked a question about the liberation of 2 hostages in Mali. Another one asked about the situation in Belarus about the detention of 700 protesters marching against the upcoming elections. Dujarric explained the UN was concerned about the situation and that the organization was keeping an eye on it as well as encourage the release of detainees due to their right to express their opinion freely as stated by the human right constitution.
I would say that while ever topic addressed was important, climate change remains a major story in today’s society as everyone depends on it. The rise of our oceans and the increase in temperatures leading to more frequent storms and natural disasters impact every continent and millions of people will be displaced if no real action is taken.