Original Source: reliefweb.int
In December 2024, as the United States holds the UN Security Council presidency, urgent recommendations focus on Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Israel/Palestine. Afghanistan grapples with escalating gender-based discrimination under Taliban rule, where women face severe human rights violations, including detention and violence. Humanitarian aid is critically needed, with 23.7 million Afghans affected, demanding a call for accountability and international support for women’s rights.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, over 25 million people require assistance amid ongoing violence and insecurity, with women and girls particularly at risk of gender-based violence and forced marriages due to conflict pressures. The international community is urged to safeguard civilians and enhance humanitarian funding, especially for women-led initiatives.
In Israel/Palestine, widespread violations of international law exacerbate the humanitarian crisis, particularly in Gaza, where military offensives have devastated lives and infrastructure. The Security Council must insist on a ceasefire and compliance with international law to protect civilians and ensure humanitarian access. Additionally, the rights of Palestinian women and activists must be prioritized to foster genuine peace efforts in the region.
The UN Security Council’s Monthly Action Points outline critical humanitarian and human rights issues that require immediate international attention and intervention. In Afghanistan, the Taliban’s policies significantly jeopardize women’s rights and safety, necessitating an urgent global response. The Democratic Republic of the Congo faces a humanitarian crisis marked by conflict-related disruptions and a high prevalence of gender-based violence, particularly impacting vulnerable groups. In the Israel/Palestine context, ongoing violence and rights violations call for accountability and legal compliance to ensure the safety and dignity of affected populations.
The December MAP emphasizes pressing humanitarian crises in Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Israel/Palestine, spotlighting the dire condition of women’s rights and security. A collective international response is paramount, demanding accountability, legal adherence, and the prioritization of vulnerable populations. The well-being of women and girls, in particular, is crucial for achieving lasting peace and humanitarian assistance in these regions.
