Airstrikes and ongoing conflict in Ukraine are leaving civilians – including thousands of children – without homes, power, water and basic services, as humanitarians warn the approaching winter is heightening the risks for communities along the frontlines.

More than 470,000 movements by civilians heading north inside the Gaza Strip have been recorded since the ceasefire began, said the UN aid coordination office (OCHA) on Monday.

Grave atrocities, including summary executions are reportedly being carried out in the Darfuri regional capital of El Fasher by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia, according to the UN human rights office (OHCHR).

Drones operated by Russian forces have repeatedly attacked Ukrainian civilians, causing deaths, injuries and large-scale destruction, independent UN human rights investigators said on Monday.

Amid deepening global divides and economic uncertainty, the United Nations called for stronger multilateral cooperation and sweeping reforms to global financial and governance systems, emphasising the need for a “networked, multipolar world” where equity and inclusion guide decision-making.

Funding cuts are dismantling the frontline organisations working to end violence against women and girls, the UN’s gender equality agency warned on Monday.

WASHINGTON, USA, October 27 (IPS) - As biodiversity loss including ocean degradation, pollution and climate change threaten our planet, islands, and particularly global small island nations, often don’t get the spotlight they deserve. Often labeled as vulnerable, the world’s small island nations are in fact powerful beacons of resilience.

UNITED NATIONS, October 27 (IPS) - The African continent has long been monopolized by European colonial rulers, with France having the largest number of colonies, ruling over 35 territories followed by Britain with 32. A bygone era of colonial rule on the continent, “once carved up and ruled by European powers hungry for imperial glory,” has virtually ended– almost.

With Hurricane Melissa threatening to unleash torrential rains and hurricane-force winds across the Caribbean, at least 1.6 million children are at risk as families in Jamaica, Haiti and surrounding islands brace for flooding, landslides and widespread disruption.

Muniba Mazari has developed a powerful voice as an artist, humanitarian and disability rights activist, earning her the nickname “The Iron Lady of Pakistan.” Earlier this year, UN chief António Guterres appointed Ms. Mazari as an SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) Advocate, joining a small group of influential public figures using their platforms to dedicated to a fairer future for people and the planet.