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United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed serious concerns regarding the recent imposition of a minimum ten percent tariff by United States President Donald Trump on imports from nearly every country. In remarks made during a media stakeout at UN Headquarters in New York, Guterres emphasized the detrimental effects such trade wars can have, especially on vulnerable developing economies. He cautioned that rising tariffs could lead to severe consequences, potentially devastating those countries that are often least equipped to handle economic turmoil.
Impact on Developing Countries
Guterres articulated particular worry over the implications for the poorest populations globally. He highlighted the risk of a recession, which could disproportionately affect these individuals, amplifying their hardships and leading to dire economic consequences.
Concerns Over US Funding Cuts for Food Assistance
The World Food Programme (WFP) has raised alarms following the announcement that the United States is cutting funding for critical emergency food assistance in 14 nations. This decision could place millions at severe risk of starvation, as noted in a statement from the agency on social media.
WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain cautioned that ongoing reductions to their assistance programs could exacerbate hunger, increase instability, and ultimately threaten global safety. She urged international leaders to consider the ramifications of this funding reduction, stressing that leaving those in dire need without support undermines global peace and stability.
In light of these developments, WFP is maintaining communication with US officials to clarify the situation and advocate for continued aid to those in need.
Refugee Populations in Jeopardy
The impending funding cuts will also severely impact refugees, particularly in Uganda, where approximately 1.8 million refugees currently reside. Since 2022, the nation has seen a monthly influx of 10,000 to 12,000 refugees, according to data from the UN refugee agency, UNHCR. This exacerbates strains on local resources, particularly amid existing funding limitations that have forced the agency to prioritize essentials like healthcare and screening at reception centers.
Matthew Crentsil, the UNHCR Representative in Uganda, expressed concerns over the sustainability of resources, indicating that the budget earmarked for the year is rapidly depleting due to the continuous arrival of refugees. Furthermore, he noted that WFP faces significant challenges in securing food supplies for these vulnerable populations.
Call to Combat Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking
Philemon Yang, President of the UN General Assembly, highlighted the critical battle against modern slavery, noting that around 50 million people are currently victims of such exploitation, with children constituting a significant portion of human trafficking victims. His comments came as he welcomed the latest report from the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking, urging member nations to enhance their efforts to combat these grave violations of human rights.
Yang reiterated the necessity of addressing the root causes that render individuals susceptible to trafficking and enslavement. He underscored the importance of a proactive approach, referencing the UN Global Plan of Action established in 2010, which is scheduled for a review later this year. New objectives for tackling human trafficking will be formulated during this review process.
Comprehensive Action Plan
To effectively combat these issues, Yang advocated for the establishment of policies centered on trauma-informed support for survivors. He emphasized the need for inclusive growth strategies that provide equitable access to essential services such as healthcare, education, skills training, and employment opportunities.
He closed with a strong message regarding the urgent need to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking, calling on global leaders to act decisively against these pressing human rights violations.
Source
news.un.org