8 September 2026 | Brussels

Brussels for Human Rights and Development (BHRD) echoes the call of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan and expresses grave concern over the continuing deterioration of the human rights and humanitarian situation in the country.

BHRD shares the concerns raised by the United Nations regarding the mounting risks facing civilians and the continued impact of hostilities on homes, hospitals, markets, schools, displacement sites and other civilian infrastructure.

As the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues, millions of Sudanese civilians remain displaced and exposed to violence, insecurity and severe humanitarian hardship. The prolonged fighting has also placed enormous pressure on essential services, particularly healthcare, water supplies and humanitarian assistance.

BHRD stresses that the protection of civilians must remain an absolute priority and that all parties to the conflict must comply fully with their obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

BHRD Supports the UN Call for an Immediate Ceasefire

Speaking before the UN Human Rights Council, High Commissioner Volker Türk renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire, an end to foreign involvement in the conflict and a return to inclusive civilian governance.

BHRD supports this call and emphasizes that a sustainable ceasefire is urgently needed to prevent further civilian casualties, facilitate humanitarian assistance and create the conditions necessary for a credible political process.

The organization further stresses that military escalation cannot provide a sustainable solution to the crisis. Meaningful international and regional efforts should instead focus on ending hostilities, protecting civilians and supporting a peaceful, inclusive and civilian-led political process.

The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) and the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for the Sudan have continued to document and investigate alleged violations connected to the conflict.

Growing Risks to Civilians

BHRD is particularly concerned by reports concerning the increasing use of long-range drones and other forms of warfare capable of extending hostilities far beyond traditional front lines.

Information presented to the Human Rights Council indicates that civilians have been killed or injured in attacks affecting residential areas, schools, hospitals, markets, displacement sites and community gatherings.

The Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for the Sudan has reported reasonable grounds to believe that both the SAF and RSF have committed serious violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, some of which may amount to war crimes.

BHRD emphasizes that allegations of serious violations must be subject to independent and impartial investigation. Those responsible for crimes under international law must be held accountable through credible judicial processes.

All parties must respect the fundamental distinction between civilians and combatants and between civilian objects and military objectives.

Sudan’s Healthcare System Under Severe Pressure

The deterioration of Sudan’s healthcare system is another matter of profound concern.

Hospitals and other medical facilities have sustained extensive damage during the conflict, while healthcare workers continue to operate under extremely difficult and dangerous conditions. Damage to operating theatres, medical equipment, hospital wards and other critical infrastructure has further reduced access to healthcare for communities already facing enormous humanitarian needs.

BHRD recalls that hospitals, medical personnel, patients and medical transport enjoy specific protections under international humanitarian law. These protections must be respected by all parties to the conflict without exception.

Attacks on healthcare facilities do not affect only those immediately caught in the violence. They can deprive entire communities of emergency treatment, surgery, maternal healthcare, medicines and other essential medical services.

Concern Over Foreign Involvement

BHRD also shares the concern surrounding allegations of external involvement that may be contributing to the continuation or escalation of the conflict.

The organization supports calls for an end to foreign involvement that fuels hostilities and stresses that states and other external actors must ensure that their actions do not facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian or human rights law.

The international community has a responsibility to use diplomatic efforts to help reduce violence rather than contribute to further military escalation and civilian suffering.

Humanitarian Access Must Be Guaranteed

The continuing conflict has created immense humanitarian needs across Sudan and has forced millions of people from their homes.

BHRD calls on all parties to guarantee safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access to civilians in need and to protect humanitarian personnel carrying out relief operations.

Humanitarian assistance must be delivered according to the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence and must never be used as an instrument of political or military pressure.

BHRD Calls for Urgent International Action

In alignment with the concerns expressed by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and other international human rights mechanisms, Brussels for Human Rights and Development calls for:

• An immediate ceasefire and meaningful efforts toward a sustainable cessation of hostilities.
• Full protection of civilians and an end to attacks against civilian populations and civilian infrastructure.
• Safe and unhindered humanitarian access throughout Sudan.
• Protection of hospitals, medical personnel, humanitarian workers and displacement sites.
• An end to external involvement that contributes to further military escalation or civilian suffering.
• Independent and impartial investigations into alleged serious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law.
• Accountability for perpetrators of crimes under international law.
• Renewed diplomatic efforts toward an inclusive, civilian-led political process capable of delivering lasting peace and stability.

Civilian Protection Must Come First

The suffering of Sudan’s civilian population must not become normalized.

BHRD reiterates its support for international efforts aimed at ending the violence and calls upon all parties, regional actors and the wider international community to place the protection, dignity and fundamental rights of Sudanese civilians at the centre of every political and diplomatic initiative.

An immediate end to hostilities is essential, but lasting peace will also require accountability, respect for human rights and a political process in which the Sudanese people can determine their future through inclusive civilian governance.

Brussels for Human Rights and Development (BHRD)
Brussels, 8 September 2026

Sources: This statement is independently prepared by BHRD and draws on information and findings made public by United Nations human rights mechanisms. Primary institutional references include the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for the Sudan.

Human Rights Situation in Africa and the Middle East

The Republic of Sudan as a Case Study

11 September 2026 | 11:00–12:00 | Room XI

This human rights side event focuses on the current human rights situation in Africa and the Middle East, with particular attention to the Republic of Sudan.

The event aims to shed light on ongoing human rights challenges and provide a space for meaningful dialogue, exchange of perspectives, and discussion of shared concerns and possible ways forward.

Protecting Aid Workers and Preserving Humanitarian Space

Official Statement
Brussels for Human Rights and Development (BHRD)
August 19, 2026

On World Humanitarian Day, Brussels for Human Rights and Development (BHRD) stands in recognition and solidarity with the hundreds of thousands of humanitarian workers and volunteers who continue to provide assistance and a lifeline to communities facing some of the world’s most challenging conditions of conflict, insecurity, and disaster.

Humanitarian action is more than an emergency response to crises. It reflects one of the highest principles of human solidarity: protecting human dignity and upholding every person’s right to life and to live with dignity, free from discrimination.

Amid escalating conflicts and the growing economic, social, and environmental challenges facing communities around the world, civil society organizations and local initiatives have become an essential pillar of humanitarian response and an indispensable safety net for people affected by crises.

BHRD believes that the effectiveness of humanitarian action depends fundamentally on empowering civil society organizations and ensuring a safe, independent, and enabling environment in which they can carry out their humanitarian and development work freely, impartially, and without undue pressure or restriction.

As a human rights organization, BHRD reaffirms the following core principles on this occasion:

1. Protecting humanitarian workers and community volunteers
Humanitarian personnel and civil society volunteers must be protected from attack, intimidation, and obstruction. Their safety and security must be guaranteed through effective legal and practical protections in all areas where they operate.

2. Ensuring unimpeded humanitarian access
Humanitarian assistance, essential supplies, and basic services must be allowed to reach all people in need safely, promptly, and without politicization, discrimination, or arbitrary restrictions.

3. Supporting local civil society
National, community-based, and grassroots organizations are often the first to respond when crises emerge. Strengthening their capacity, resources, and protection is essential to ensuring rapid, effective, and locally grounded humanitarian action.

4. Preserving the independence and neutrality of humanitarian action
Humanitarian work must remain independent of political conflicts and rivalries. The humanitarian space necessary for civil society organizations to fulfill their mission must be respected and protected at all times.

On World Humanitarian Day, BHRD renews its firm commitment to defending the values of human solidarity, human dignity, and fundamental rights. We reaffirm our commitment to working alongside humanitarian actors, civil society organizations, and community initiatives to protect those who serve and support those affected by crises.

Protecting humanitarian workers and enabling them to carry out their work safely and independently is not only a humanitarian obligation—it is an investment in a more just, dignified, and secure future for all.

Brussels for Human Rights and Development (BHRD)
August 19, 2026

May 1, 2026

Every year on May 1, the world comes together to celebrate International Workers’ Day — a day dedicated to recognizing the contributions, dedication, and achievements of workers across all industries.

From early morning shifts to late-night efforts, from skilled craftsmanship to innovative problem-solving, workers are the driving force behind every thriving society. Labour Day is a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the countless contributions that often go unnoticed in our daily lives.

Honoring Work in All Its Forms

Work takes many forms, and each role plays a vital part in shaping our communities.

• Builders and engineers who create our cities
• Teachers who inspire future generations
• Healthcare workers who care for lives every day
• Entrepreneurs and innovators who push boundaries

Each contribution, no matter how big or small, helps move the world forward.

A Day Rooted in History

The origins of International Workers’ Day go back to the late 19th century, when the value of fair working conditions began gaining global recognition.

Over time, the day has grown into an international celebration observed in many countries, symbolizing respect, gratitude, and unity among workers everywhere.

The Modern Workplace

Today, the nature of work continues to evolve.

Technology, creativity, and collaboration are shaping new opportunities across industries. Whether working remotely, in offices, or on-site, people are redefining what it means to contribute and succeed.

Labour Day is also a chance to appreciate this evolution — recognizing how adaptability and continuous learning are becoming essential parts of modern work life.

Building a Better Future Together

At its heart, Labour Day is about more than work — it’s about people.

It’s about:

• Dedication and perseverance
• Growth and learning
• Community and shared progress

By valuing these principles, societies can continue to grow stronger and more connected.

A Simple Reminder

As we celebrate International Workers’ Day, it’s worth taking a moment to say:

Thank you to everyone who contributes, creates, and builds — every single day.

Your work matters. Your effort counts. And together, it shapes the world we live in.

Final Thought

Labour Day 2026 is a celebration of human effort, resilience, and creativity. It reminds us that behind every achievement, there are people whose dedication makes it possible.

Today, we celebrate them all.

Women and girls across Sudan are facing widespread insecurity as the conflict enters its fourth year, according to the United Nations Population Fund.

A recent assessment based on discussions with nearly 1,000 women and girls across 16 states found that 76% of women aged 25 to 49 feel unsafe both inside displacement camps and in surrounding areas such as markets, roads, and water points.

Speaking from Khartoum, UNFPA representative Fabrizia Falcione said insecurity is not limited to specific locations, noting that “no matter where, they feel unsafe.” Conditions worsen at night, when women often walk in complete darkness to access basic facilities like latrines.

Ongoing Conflict and Displacement

The war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces continues to drive displacement and violence across the country.

Many women have fled multiple times, often under shelling and active fighting. The journey to safety remains dangerous, with reports of harassment, sexual violence, and severe shortages of food and water.

Displacement camps, where women and children form the majority, continue to lack adequate protection and essential services.

Reporting Challenges

Efforts to report gender-based violence remain limited due to stigma, fear of retaliation, financial barriers, and lack of access to support services. Officials warn that many cases likely go unreported.

Women Call for Opportunities

According to the UNFPA findings, Sudanese women are prioritizing long-term solutions over short-term aid. Their main demands include access to healthcare, education for their children, and income-generating opportunities.

“They don’t want to be fed—they want opportunities to provide for their families,” the UN official said.

Funding Gaps Threaten Support Services

UNFPA currently operates 88 safe spaces for women and girls across Sudan, offering protection and support services.

However, funding shortages are putting these programs at risk. The protection sector is only 14% funded, while health services have received just 11% of required funding.

Situation Overview

• 76% of women report feeling unsafe
• Conflict ongoing for four years
• Repeated displacement and exposure to violence
• Critical shortages in funding and services

Yemen is facing an increasingly fragile situation as conflict pressures mount across the Middle East, with millions of civilians at risk, the United Nations Security Council was told this week.

Senior UN officials warned that Yemen must not be drawn deeper into regional tensions, calling for de-escalation, renewed political efforts, and urgent humanitarian funding.

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Rising Regional Tensions

Despite a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran, recent escalations continue to impact the region. The Houthi movement has reportedly launched attacks toward Israel, raising concerns about further instability.

Maritime security also remains a key issue, particularly in the Red Sea and Bab-el-Mandeb Strait—critical global shipping routes near Yemen.

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Economic Pressure Worsens Crisis

Hans Grundberg warned that Yemen, after nearly a decade of conflict, has little capacity to withstand additional shocks.

Rising fuel and food prices—driven by regional instability—are compounding existing challenges such as delayed salaries, weak public services, and economic fragmentation.

Although relative calm has held since the 2022 truce, officials stressed that stability remains fragile and cannot be guaranteed.

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Humanitarian Needs Reach Critical Levels

According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the crisis is worsening rapidly:

• Over 22 million people need humanitarian assistance
• More than 18 million face severe hunger
• Two-thirds of families are skipping meals daily
• Over 2 million children under five are acutely malnourished
• Around 19 million people lack access to healthcare

Women and children are among the most affected, with over one million pregnant and breastfeeding women facing serious health risks due to malnutrition.

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Aid Efforts Under Strain

Humanitarian operations are facing major obstacles. Dozens of UN staff remain detained, aid supplies have been disrupted, and access to affected areas is increasingly restricted.

Edem Wosornu warned that the gap between available resources and growing needs is widening rapidly.

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Situation Overview

• Ongoing regional tensions threatening stability
• Severe hunger and malnutrition across the country
• Healthcare system under extreme pressure
• Humanitarian response facing major constraints

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UN officials cautioned that after years of conflict, Yemen’s population is “hanging by a thread,” urging immediate international action to prevent further deterioration.

As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins, global leaders and athletes are highlighting the power of sport to unite communities and drive social change.

Speaking at an event near UN Headquarters, officials and athletes emphasized that football and other sports go beyond competition, helping to build connections across cultures and generations while promoting dialogue and inclusion.

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🌍 World Cup 2026 Set to Reach Billions

The tournament, set to run from 11 June to 19 July 2026, will feature 48 national teams competing across 104 matches in Mexico, Canada, and the United States.

The final will take place at MetLife Stadium, close to the United Nations headquarters.

With billions expected to watch worldwide, the event is being seen as a major opportunity to promote unity and shared values through sport.

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🤝 Community Programs Aim to Create Lasting Impact

Alongside the tournament, initiatives like the Play Collective will support grassroots sports organizations across host cities.

The programme—backed by groups such as Adidas Foundation, Beyond Sport Foundation, and Common Goal—aims to create safe and inclusive spaces for young people, reaching millions worldwide.

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🕊️ Sport as a Tool for Peace and Inclusion

At the event marking the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, speakers stressed that sport can break barriers and promote mutual respect.

Mary Connor highlighted similarities between teamwork in football and global cooperation, noting the importance of “making space for one another” despite differences.

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🥇 Inspiring Stories from Global Athletes

Among the speakers was Nawal El Moutawakel, who made history at the 1984 Olympics as the first Arab and African woman to win gold.

She described sport as a pathway to resilience and empowerment, particularly for women, and pointed to growing gender equality in global sports leadership as a sign of progress.

Young athletes also shared personal stories of overcoming challenges such as poverty and mental health struggles through sport.

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📊 Situation Overview

• 2026 World Cup to feature 48 teams and 104 matches
• Tournament hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the US
• Community programmes supporting millions of young people
• Sport highlighted as a tool for peace, inclusion, and development

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As the world prepares for one of the biggest sporting events, officials say the true legacy of the World Cup will not only be measured in goals and trophies—but in its ability to bring people together and create lasting social impact.

18 February 2026 | Culture and Education

A new report from UNESCO warns that rapid advances in generative artificial intelligence are reshaping cultural markets — and putting artists’ livelihoods at significant risk.

The findings come from the latest edition of Re|Shaping Policies for Creativity, UNESCO’s flagship global monitoring report covering more than 120 countries.

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📉 Projected Income Losses by 2028

According to UNESCO’s projections:

• 🎵 Music creators could see revenues fall by 24%
• 🎬 Audiovisual workers may lose 21% of income
• AI-generated content is expanding rapidly in global markets
• Policy responses are not keeping pace with technological change

The report stresses that these disruptions are unfolding faster than governments can regulate them, increasing economic vulnerability across the creative sector.

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🎭 Why Artists Are Under Pressure

While digital platforms have opened new distribution channels, they have also introduced new risks:

• Increased exposure to intellectual property violations
• Reduced compensation per stream or digital use
• Competition from AI-generated outputs
• Opaque algorithms limiting content visibility

UNESCO warns that AI tools are flooding markets with synthetic music, images, scripts and video content, competing directly with human creators.

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🌍 A Growing Creative Digital Divide

Global inequalities compound the problem:

• 67% of people in developed countries possess essential digital skills
• Only 28% in developing countries do

This imbalance limits creators in the Global South from fully benefiting from digital opportunities.

In addition:

• Major streaming platforms dominate global distribution
• Algorithmic visibility favors already-established creators
• Smaller or independent artists struggle for exposure

This widens disparities within the creative economy.

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🏛️ Policy Gaps and Needed Action

UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany described the current moment as a turning point for the global creative economy.

The report reviews over 8,100 cultural policy measures and calls for:

• Stronger copyright protections
• Fair remuneration systems
• Transparent AI training datasets
• Regulation of generative AI markets
• Increased public investment in cultural sectors
• International cooperation on digital governance

Without intervention, UNESCO warns that artists risk further marginalization as technology evolves.

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🔎 Broader Implications

This is not only an economic issue.

Creative industries contribute to:

• Cultural diversity
• Social cohesion
• Democratic discourse
• Economic growth
• Sustainable Development Goals

If creators’ incomes decline sharply, long-term cultural sustainability may weaken.

17 February 2026 | Peace and Security

As Ramadan begins in Gaza, families are trying to preserve traditions of joy and togetherness despite two years of war, displacement and economic collapse.

For many, the holy month now unfolds under tents pitched beside the rubble of destroyed homes.

Life beside the ruins

Walid Al-Assi once celebrated Ramadan with family meals and sweets such as qatayef. Today, he lives in a makeshift tent in Gaza City’s Al-Zarqa neighbourhood, beside what remains of his home.

He told UN News that while goods are visible in shops, he cannot afford them.

“Everything has changed now… I turn my face away from goods because I do not have the money to buy them.”

Suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure, and unable to walk easily, he says those living in tents urgently need assistance.

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“We are living in a tragedy”

Nearby, Amal Al-Samri and her family try to create a symbolic Ramadan atmosphere. She smiles for her children as they sit outside their tent, but says life before the war was entirely different.

“Our life was beautiful… Today, there is nothing.”

The family has faced repeated displacement, flooding from seawater, and severe shortages of electricity and clean water.

According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA):

• Around 1.4 million people — nearly two thirds of Gaza’s population — are displaced
• Approximately 1,000 displacement sites are operating
• Most consist of overcrowded tents with little privacy or protection

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High prices and limited purchasing power

Despite hardship, Ramadan decorations have appeared in Gaza City’s historic Zawiya market.

However, shop owners report severe price increases due to restricted supply flows.

Luay Al-Jamasi, who sells Ramadan lanterns, explained:

• A lantern that once cost 30 shekels now costs 60
• Limited goods entering Gaza have driven prices sharply upward

Many families walk through the market without buying anything, unable to afford even small decorations.

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Holding onto hope

Even amid hardship, residents express determination to celebrate in their own way.

Maher Tarzi, a member of Gaza’s Christian community, visited the market singing traditional Ramadan songs in solidarity.

“People want to be happy… We’ve been through some difficult times, and it’s good that we’re still alive.”

He noted that while people try to resume daily life, purchasing power has dramatically declined.

At night, some areas glow faintly with lantern light — small symbols of resilience in a landscape marked by destruction.

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Humanitarian Context

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains severe:

• Massive housing destruction
• Limited electricity and water access
• Continued displacement
• Economic collapse
• Strained humanitarian response

Ramadan, a month traditionally centred on community, generosity and shared meals, now highlights both deprivation and resilience.

13 February 2026 | Peace and Security

Syria’s fragile political transition has taken an important step forward following a landmark agreement between Damascus and Kurdish authorities in the northeast. However, renewed violence in other regions, Israeli military activity, and deep humanitarian needs continue to threaten stability.

Breakthrough in the Northeast

Briefing the Security Council, Deputy Special Envoy Claudio Cordone described the 30 January ceasefire and integration agreement between the Syrian Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) as potentially transformative.

The agreement includes:

• Phased military and administrative integration of northeast Syria
• Provisions for the return of displaced persons
• Protection of Kurdish civil and educational rights
• Implementation measures linked to Presidential Decree 13

Cordone reported that hostilities have ceased in the northeast and implementation planning is progressing, including deployments of Ministry of Interior forces in Al-Hasakeh and Qamishli.

The United Nations Security Council welcomed the deal in a presidential statement, urging adherence to prevent civilian suffering and avoid security gaps around ISIL (Da’esh) detention facilities.

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Sensitive ISIL detention issue

The UN continues monitoring transfers of Syrian and foreign ISIL suspects to Iraq. Cordone stressed that judicial proceedings must meet fair trial standards and called on Member States to repatriate their nationals swiftly.

The management of detention facilities remains a key security concern.

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Ongoing tensions elsewhere

Despite relative calm in the northeast, instability persists:

🔹 Sweida (South)

• Renewed clashes between Government forces and local armed groups
• Damage to infrastructure and electricity outages
• Protests calling for self-determination

🔹 Southern Syria

The UN envoy raised concern over Israeli incursions and operations in southern Syria, urging:

• Respect for international law
• Compliance with the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement
• Withdrawal from occupied areas
• Pursuit of mutually acceptable security arrangements

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Humanitarian situation remains severe

According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA):

• Around 130,000 people remain displaced across Al-Hasakeh, Ar-Raqqa, and Aleppo
• Over 90% of the displaced are women and girls
• Flooding in Idleb and northern Latakia recently killed two children and damaged around 2,000 tents

However, modest improvements are reported:

• 200,000 people reached with assistance
• 170 humanitarian truck movements organized
• Electricity restored in Ain al-Arab (Kobane)

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Political transition milestones

The next key development is the formation of Syria’s new People’s Assembly. Most elected seats were voted in October 2025, with further appointments pending.

Cordone emphasized that:

• All regions and communities must be meaningfully represented
• Human rights protections are essential
• Transitional justice and accountability for missing persons are critical

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Role of Syrian women

The Deputy Envoy highlighted the “extraordinary role” of Syrian women and civil society throughout the conflict, stressing that women’s participation is essential for inclusive governance and sustainable peace.