Kampala: Uganda’s position as Africa’s largest refugee-hosting country is under threat as emergency funding for refugee aid has dried up, according to UNHCR. Uganda’s progressive policy allows refugees access to work and public services, but the funding shortfall means that essential aid is now at risk.
According to United Nations, the agency’s director for external relations, Dominique Hyde, has warned of dire consequences if global support does not increase. “More children will die of malnutrition, more girls will fall victim to sexual violence, and families will be left without shelter or protection,” Ms. Hyde stated. UNHCR currently estimates it costs $16 per refugee per month for essential services, but available funding only allows for $5 worth of aid.
During a visit to Ugandan refugee camps, Ms. Hyde met a 16-year-old girl from South Sudan caring for her younger siblings. The girl dreams of returning to school but is currently focused on survival. With only 25% of the necessary funds secured, the aid provided by UNHCR and the Ugandan government is quickly dwindling. Ms. Hyde emphasized the need for international support, stating, “This model can succeed, but it can’t do it alone.”
Serbia’s Democratic Values Tested Amid Protest Crackdown
Belgrade: Serbia is facing criticism from independent human rights experts for its handling of protests that have been sweeping the nation. According to these experts, the government’s crackdown on protestors, especially targeting students and academics, violates international human rights and poses a threat to democracy.
The protests began in late 2024 following a fatal infrastructural collapse. Since June, experts have noted an increase in violence against protestors, including unlawful arrests and intimidation of educational institutions supporting the movement. “This approach not only violates international human rights standards but also undermines the foundation of a democratic society,” the experts stated, urging the Serbian government to uphold human rights and justice.
FAO Launches Initiative to Boost Afghan Farmer Resilience
Kabul: The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), along with the United Kingdom, is initiating a new program aimed at enhancing agricultural resilience in Afghanistan. According to FAO, the Resilient Agriculture Livelihoods (ReAL) program targets over 150,000 individuals, including small-scale farmers and women, across the country by next May.
Richard Trenchard, FAO’s representative in Afghanistan, highlighted the program’s goal to expand market access and manage climate risks. “This project lays down important pathways to help farmers rebuild resilience,” he said. Between 2022 and 2024, FAO’s efforts have already reached over 30.3 million Afghans, reducing food insecurity by half. The ReAL program is expected to continue this positive impact, fostering long-term sustainability in Afghan agriculture.