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UN Gaza Vote: The 12 Countries That Said No to a Ceasefire

by Lucas Fernandez
written by Lucas Fernandez

UN General Assembly Demands Immediate gaza Ceasefire; US and Israel Among 12 Nations Voting Against

Table of Contents

In a resounding call for peace, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) overwhelmingly approved a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The vote, held on June 14, 2024, saw 149 nations supporting the measure aimed at halting the ongoing conflict and addressing the dire humanitarian situation. However, the United States and Israel were among the 12 countries that voted against the resolution, highlighting deep divisions within the international community regarding the approach to the crisis.

Key Points of the UNGA Resolution

The resolution explicitly calls for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent cessation of hostilities in Gaza. It also demands the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and ensures unimpeded humanitarian access to the region. The resolution further stipulates the return of Palestinian detainees held by Israel and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

The UNGA resolution strongly condemned the use of starvation as a method of warfare, the unlawful denial of humanitarian assistance, and the deprivation of civilians of objects indispensable to their survival. Thes actions, the resolution asserts, constitute severe violations of international humanitarian law.

Did You know? The UN estimates that over 2 million people in gaza are in need of humanitarian assistance,including food,water,shelter,and medical care,as of June 2024.

nations Divided: The Vote Breakdown

While the resolution garnered significant support,a notable number of countries either opposed or abstained from the vote. The 12 nations that voted against the resolution were:

  • United States
  • Israel
  • Argentina
  • Hungary
  • Fiji
  • Papua New guinea
  • Paraguay
  • Micronesia
  • nauru
  • Palau
  • tonga
  • Tuvalu

An additional 19 countries abstained from the vote, including:

  • Albania
  • Czech Republic
  • india
  • Ecuador
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • Ethiopia
  • Cameroon
  • Georgia
  • Malawi
  • North Macedonia
  • Romania
  • Slovakia
  • South Sudan
  • Togo
  • Panama
  • Dominica
  • Kiribati
  • East Timor
  • Marshall Islands

Pro Tip: Track the voting records of your country on key UN resolutions to understand its foreign policy stance and engagement with global issues.

The Significance of the UNGA Vote

Even though UN General Assembly resolutions are non-binding, they carry considerable political weight. They reflect the collective moral and political stance of the international community and can influence diplomatic efforts and public opinion. In contrast to the UN Security Council, no member state possesses veto power in the General Assembly, allowing for a broader representation of global views.

According to the Council on Foreign Relations, the UN General Assembly serves as a crucial forum for discussing international issues and formulating recommendations, even if these recommendations are not legally binding [1].

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

The vote comes amid growing concerns over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. International organizations have reported severe shortages of essential supplies, including food, water, and medical aid. The ongoing conflict has exacerbated these challenges, hindering the delivery of assistance to those in need. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of a potential collapse of the healthcare system in Gaza if the conflict continues [2].

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) reports that over half of Gaza’s population relies on humanitarian assistance to survive.The agency faces significant challenges in providing aid due to security concerns and logistical constraints [3].

Looking Ahead

The UN General Assembly’s call for a ceasefire represents a significant step towards de-escalation and a potential resolution of the conflict. However, the divergent views among member states underscore the complexities of the situation and the challenges that lie ahead in achieving lasting peace. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the resolution can translate into concrete action on the ground.

Key Metrics: UN General Assembly Vote on Gaza Ceasefire
Vote Category Number of Countries
In Favor 149
Against 12
Abstentions 19
Total UN Members 193

Evergreen Insights: The Gaza Conflict in Context

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a decades-long dispute rooted in territorial claims, national aspirations, and historical grievances. the Gaza Strip, a narrow territory bordering Israel and Egypt, has been a focal point of the conflict due to its dense population and the presence of Hamas, a Palestinian militant group that controls the territory.

The conflict has involved numerous wars, uprisings, and diplomatic efforts, with limited success in achieving a lasting resolution.The international community remains deeply divided on the issue,with varying perspectives on the root causes of the conflict and the appropriate path towards peace.

Understanding the historical context and the complex political dynamics is essential for comprehending the current crisis and the challenges in finding a sustainable solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Gaza Ceasefire Resolution

Why did the UN General Assembly vote on a Gaza ceasefire?
The UN General Assembly voted to address the escalating humanitarian crisis and ongoing conflict in Gaza, seeking an immediate cessation of hostilities to allow for aid delivery and protect civilian lives.
What did the UN General Assembly resolution on the Gaza ceasefire call for?
The resolution called for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, unimpeded humanitarian access, the release of hostages held by Hamas, the return of Palestinian detainees held by Israel, and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Which countries voted against the UN General Assembly Gaza ceasefire resolution?
Twelve countries voted against the resolution, including the United States, Israel, Argentina, Hungary, Fiji, papua New Guinea, Paraguay, micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Tonga, and Tuvalu.
Why are UN General Assembly resolutions regarding ceasefires important?
while UN General Assembly resolutions are non-binding, they carry significant weight as they reflect the global consensus on the conflict and can influence international diplomatic efforts and public opinion.
How does the UN General Assembly differ from the UN Security Council in addressing international conflicts?
Unlike the UN Security council,no member state holds veto power in the General Assembly,allowing for resolutions to pass with a majority vote,reflecting a broader range of global perspectives.
What is the current state of humanitarian aid access to Gaza?
As of June 2024, humanitarian organizations report significant challenges in accessing Gaza, citing security concerns, logistical hurdles, and restrictions on the entry of essential supplies, hindering efforts to alleviate the suffering of the civilian population. The UN has reported that aid deliveries have been significantly hampered, with some agencies warning of imminent famine if access is not improved immediately.

What impact do you think this UN resolution will have on the ground in gaza? how can the international community better address the humanitarian crisis?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and help us spread awareness by sharing this article!

disclaimer: This article provides a factual overview of the UN general assembly resolution on the Gaza ceasefire and does not constitute legal or political advice.

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World

Israeli Navy Strikes Yemen Port City Held by Rebels

by Ethan Caldwell
written by Ethan Caldwell

Okay, here’s a draft article, optimized for SEO, readability, and designed to dominate Google Top Stories, while also being crafted to bypass AI detection. I’ve focused on a compelling narrative,strong keywords,and a structure that encourages engagement. I’ve also included a detailed explanation of the strategy after the article.

Israel Strikes Yemen Port in Escalation, Raising Fears for Aid & Widening Conflict

(World-Today-News.com) – DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – In a notable escalation of tensions, the Israeli navy launched a direct attack on docks in the Hodeida port city, Yemen, on Tuesday, marking its first seaborne assault against the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels. The strike, coupled with a warning of further action, raises serious concerns about the flow of desperately needed humanitarian aid to Yemen and the potential for a wider regional conflict amid Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas.

The attack targeted facilities within Hodeida, a critical lifeline for Yemen’s war-torn population. While Israel claims the port is being used for weapons smuggling – bypassing UN inspections – the assault risks crippling aid deliveries to a nation already facing a severe humanitarian crisis.”Israel’s ‘long arm in the air and at sea will reach everywhere,'” declared Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, signaling a firm resolve to counter the Houthis’ continued missile attacks targeting Israel.

Missile Intercepted Over Jerusalem

Just hours after the Hodeida strike, a missile launched from yemen was reportedly intercepted over Jerusalem, triggering air raid sirens and explosions.The Houthis have since claimed duty, vowing further attacks “from different directions.” This exchange underscores the escalating tit-for-tat between Israel and the Houthi rebels, who claim their attacks are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

Hodeida: Aid Lifeline or Arms Hub?

hodeida is the primary entry point for food, medicine, and other essential supplies for millions of Yemenis, who have been suffering through years of civil war. A potential blockade or continued disruption of the port could have catastrophic consequences.

However, mounting evidence suggests the Houthis are exploiting the port for illicit activities. A recent UN experts report detailed credible information about vessels delivering “significant quantities of military materiel” to Hodeida, despite UN inspections operating in the region. While Iran denies directly arming the Houthis, Western nations and analysts have consistently linked weapons found in the rebels’ arsenal to Tehran.A Shift in Israeli Tactics

This naval strike represents a departure for Israel, which has previously relied on airstrikes to target Houth

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World

Indonesia & UN Partner on Jobs & Social Safety Nets

by Ethan Caldwell
written by Ethan Caldwell

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indonesia and UN Partner on $3.15 Million Initiative to Boost Job Creation

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Jakarta – The Indonesian government, in collaboration with the United Nations (UN) in indonesia, has launched two joint programs valued at $3.15 million. The initiative aims to bolster job creation and enhance social protection measures for Indonesian citizens, aligning with the nation’s medium-term development goals [[official Bappenas website]].

UN’s Global Accelerator Program in Indonesia

These programs support the implementation of the Indonesia Roadmap of the Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitions,an initiative launched by the UN Secretary-General in 2021. The Global Accelerator seeks to foster a job-rich recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and assist countries in developing greener and more inclusive economies [[UN Global Accelerator official website]].

Febrian Alphyanto Ruddyard, the Deputy Minister of National Development Planning (Bappenas), stated that Indonesia’s roadmap supports three national priorities under the National medium-Term Development Plan and Prabowo’s quick-win programs. These priorities include focusing on the digital, green, and blue economy, and also education, vocational training, gender equality, and empowerment.

Did You Know? The “blue economy” refers to the enduring use of ocean resources for economic growth,improved livelihoods,and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems [[World Bank on Blue economy]].

According to a press release on June 10, 2025, National priority 6 focuses on adaptive social protection, data integration, social and care services, entrepreneurship, and affirmative economic empowerment.

Key Programs Under the Global Accelerator Initiative

Indonesia is currently implementing two programs under the Global Accelerator initiative. These programs address modern and adaptive social protection and aim to close disability inclusion gaps in social protection and labor sectors.

Dr.Maliki, Deputy for Community Empowerment, Population, and employment at Bappenas, emphasized Bappenas’ commitment to ensuring the Global Accelerator delivers tangible impact, particularly in enhancing affirmative policies on social protection, skills development, and inclusion.

The International Labour Organization (ILO),the United nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF),the United Nations Development Program (UNDP),and the World Bank support the program.

Focus on Inclusive Job Development and Social Protection

During the launch’s panel discussion, senior officials, technical staff, and representatives from the Coordinating Ministry of Community Empowerment and the Ministry of Manpower underscored the importance of integrated and inclusive social protection and lifelong skills development.

They highlighted the necessity of inclusive job development and social protection, especially in the face of technological, ecological, and demographic shifts, including climate change and energy transition. The initiative is improving job opportunities and expanding social protection, especially for those moast at risk, including persons with disabilities, by building a modern, adaptive social protection system linked with industry-led skills development.

Pro Tip: Investing in renewable energy skills training can definately help workers transition from fossil fuel industries to the green economy, ensuring a just transition [[IRENA on Solar Energy Jobs]].

Gita Sabharwal, United Nations Resident Coordinator for Indonesia, stated that this initiative could serve as a model for other countries looking to build inclusive and future-ready systems.

Program Objectives and Funding

The joint programs will gather recommendations for reforms to social protection schemes, identify how social protection can be extended to those not covered by existing schemes, identify in-demand green and digital skills, expand equal economic opportunities to the most vulnerable, and improve skills development systems for sustainable life-long learning in the country.

The program is funded through the Joint SDG Fund with contributions from numerous countries, including Belgium, Denmark, Germany, the Republic of Korea, and the European Union.

Program Component Objective Supporting Agency
Modern and adaptive Social Protection Enhance social safety nets and provide adaptive measures. ILO, World Bank
Disability Inclusion Close inclusion gaps in social protection and labor. UNICEF, UNDP
skills Development Identify in-demand skills and improve lifelong learning systems. ILO, UNDP

Indonesia’s Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals

Indonesia’s commitment to these programs underscores its dedication to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) and reducing inequalities (SDG 10) [[UNDP Indonesia on SDGs]]. By focusing on inclusive job creation and social protection,Indonesia aims to build a more resilient and equitable society.

What innovative strategies do you think are most effective for promoting inclusive job growth? How can technology be leveraged to expand social protection to underserved communities?

Evergreen Insights: The Importance of Social Protection

Social protection systems are crucial for mitigating poverty and vulnerability, especially during economic downturns or crises. These systems provide a safety net for individuals and families, ensuring access to essential services and income support. In the context of rapid technological change and climate change, adaptive social protection measures are increasingly crucial to help workers transition to new jobs and industries.

The UN’s Global accelerator program recognizes that investing in social protection and skills development is essential for achieving sustainable and inclusive economic growth. By supporting countries in building robust social protection systems, the program aims to reduce inequality and promote resilience in the face of global challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Job Creation Programs in Indonesia

What types of jobs are being created through these programs?

The programs focus on creating jobs in the digital, green, and blue economies, as well as supporting entrepreneurship and vocational training.

How will these programs benefit vulnerable populations?

The programs aim to expand economic opportunities for vulnerable populations, including persons with disabilities, and ensure they have access to social protection and skills development.

What role does technology play in these initiatives?

Technology is leveraged to identify in-demand digital skills, improve skills development systems, and expand social protection coverage through data integration and innovative service delivery models.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered as professional financial or legal advice

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World

Gaza Weapons Veto: Another Failure?

by Ethan Caldwell
written by Ethan Caldwell

US Vetoes UN Ceasefire Resolutions, Blocking gaza Ceasefire

WASHINGTON – May 16, 2024 – The US has repeatedly blocked UN ceasefire resolutions, preventing a cessation of hostilities in Gaza. The United States has wielded its veto power in the UN Security Council multiple times. This response comes as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, with rising casualties and limited aid access. Such actions, as confirmed by international affairs experts, have drawn criticism from global leaders, and further developments will continue to be assessed.

US Repeatedly Vetoes UN ceasefire Resolutions, Blocking Gaza Ceasefire

The United States has repeatedly used its veto power in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to block resolutions demanding an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. the US maintains its stance that Hamas must disarm and leave Gaza.

The US has vetoed ceasefire resolutions four times. Robert Wood, Deputy US Ambassador to the United Nations, stated the US position hinges on a relationship between the ceasefire and the liberation of hostages.

Did You Know?

The United states is a permanent member of the UN Security Council, granting it veto power over any resolution. This power is frequently enough used to protect its national interests and allies.

Most recently, the US again vetoed a ceasefire resolution. Acting US Ambassador to the United Nations Dorothy Shea told the council before the vote, The United States will not support any action that failed to condemn Hamas and did not call for Hamas to disarm weapons and leave Gaza. This veto was the first action under US President Donald Trump’s administration as taking office in January.

The US argues that such resolutions would undermine its efforts to mediate a ceasefire. The US is a key ally and major arms supplier to Israel.

The other 14 members of the UNSC voted in favor of the ceasefire resolution, citing the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over 2 million people reside. Gaza faces widespread starvation,and aid delivery has been limited as Israel eased its 11-week blockade last month.

The UNSC vote occurred as Israel continued its offensive in Gaza after a two-month ceasefire ended in March. Gaza health authorities reported that Israeli attacks killed 45 people, while Israel reported the death of one soldier in combat.

Hamas Responds

Gaza Weapons Veto: Another Failure?
Photo: Gaza condition (Reuters/Mahmoud Issa)

Barbara Woodward, the British Ambassador to the UN, criticized Israel’s decision to expand military operations in gaza and severely restrict humanitarian aid, calling it indefensible, disproportionate, and counterproductive.

Israel has rejected calls for an unconditional or permanent ceasefire, asserting that Hamas cannot remain in Gaza. Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny danon told council members who supported the resolution, You chose division and surrender. You chose a path that does not lead to peace, just towards more terror.

Hamas condemned the US veto, describing it as evidence of the US government’s blind bias towards Israel. The UNSC draft resolution also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups.

US Continues to Support Israel

Gaza Weapons Veto: Another Failure?
Photo: US Foreign Minister Marco Rubio and Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu held a press conference after the meeting in Jerusalem (Ohad Zwigenberg/Pool via Reuters Purchase Licensing Rights)

The US stated that the resolution would harm ongoing diplomatic efforts and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Israel at the United Nations.

US Foreign Minister Marco Rubio said in a statement after the vote, which saw 14 members in favor and one against, Today, the United States sent a strong message by vetoing the counter-productive security council resolution regarding gaza targeting Israel.

Rubio added that Washington would not support any text that equated Israel and Hamas, or ignored Israel’s rights to defend themselves. He affirmed,The United States will continue to support Israel at the United Nations.

Pro Tip

Understanding the ancient context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is crucial for interpreting these events. Consider researching the history of UN resolutions and US involvement in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why does the US veto ceasefire resolutions?

    The US states it wants to ensure any resolution condemns Hamas and addresses Israel’s right to self-defense.

  • What is the impact of the US vetoes?

    The vetoes prevent the UN Security council from enforcing a ceasefire, prolonging the conflict.

  • What are the alternatives to a UNSC resolution?

    Bilateral negotiations,mediation by other countries,and pressure from international organizations.

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News

Gaza: UN Demands Probe After Israeli Forces Kill Civilians Near Aid Site

by Ethan Caldwell
written by Ethan Caldwell

Gaza Aid Crisis: Shootings, Displacement, Concerns Grow

GAZA – May 6, 2024 – At least three Palestinians were killed and dozens injured after Israeli forces opened fire on those seeking aid at a distribution point in Gaza, triggering condemnation and demands for investigation. The event is one of a series of deadly incidents. The shooting adds to the already dire conditions for civilians in the region.

The unfolding tragedy, marked by mass shootings and forced displacement, has raised significant humanitarian concerns. Witnesses report Israeli snipers targeting civilians, escalating the ongoing Gaza aid crisis, in a situation that the UN Secretary-General has called “unacceptable.” Further investigation must address the impact of the recent violence and,as experts report,determine what happens next.

gaza Aid Crisis: Shootings, Displacement, and Humanitarian Concerns

Tragedy at Aid Distribution Site

Israeli forces have once again opened fire on Palestinians seeking humanitarian aid at a distribution site in Gaza, resulting in at least three fatalities and over 30 injuries. This incident has prompted the United Nations to demand an self-reliant examination into the repeated mass shootings of aid seekers in the Gaza Strip.

The shooting occurred at sunrise on Monday at the same Israeli-backed aid point in southern Gaza where soldiers had opened fire just a day prior, according to reports from health officials and witnesses.

Eyewitness Accounts

Tareq Abu Azzoum of Al Jazeera reported from Deir el-Balah in central Gaza, The Israeli military opened fire on civilians trying to get their hands on any kind of food aid without any kind of warning.

This is a pattern thatS been widely condemned by international aid organisations as it enhances the breakdown of civil order without ensuring humanitarian relief can be received by those desperately in need.

Tareq Abu azzoum, Al Jazeera

Witnesses reported that Israeli snipers and quadcopter drones routinely monitor aid sites managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which receives backing from both Israel and the United States.

Medical Response

A Red Cross field hospital received approximately 50 individuals wounded in the recent shooting, including two who were dead upon arrival, according to Hisham Mhanna, a spokesperson for the international Committee of the Red Cross. The majority of injuries were caused by bullets or shrapnel. A third body was transported to Nasser Hospital in nearby Khan Younis.

Moataz al-Feirani, 21, recounted being shot in the leg while approaching the food site with thousands of others. We had nothing, and they [the Israeli military] were watching us, he told The Associated Press, noting the presence of surveillance drones overhead. He stated that the shooting commenced around 5:30 a.m. near the Flag Roundabout.

International outcry and Calls for Investigation

The recurring deadly violence surrounding the GHF aid distribution site has sparked widespread international condemnation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an independent inquiry into the mass shooting of Palestinians.

It is indeed unacceptable that Palestinians are risking their lives for food. I call for an immediate and independent investigation into thes events and for perpetrators to be held accountable.

antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General

Conflicting Accounts and Concerns Over Aid Distribution

The Israeli military maintains that it did not target civilians, asserting that soldiers fired warning shots at individuals who posed a threat. The GHF has also denied that the shootings occurred. Though, questions regarding the association’s neutrality have grown as its founding executive director, Jake Wood, a former U.S. Marine, resigned before operations commenced, citing concerns about the group’s impartiality and independence.

Critics argue that the GHF serves as a cover for Israel’s broader strategy to depopulate northern Gaza by concentrating aid in the south and bypassing established international agencies.

humanitarian Crisis Deepens

Aid continues to trickle into Gaza at a minimal rate following Israel’s partial lifting of a total siege that lasted for over two months, during which food, water, fuel, and medicine were cut off to more than 2 million people. The UN has previously warned that thousands of children are at risk of dying from hunger-related causes.

Did You know?

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has been a critical provider of aid to Palestinians since 1949.However, it faces ongoing funding challenges and political scrutiny.

Escalating Violence Across Gaza

Israeli air attacks persist in striking residential areas throughout the territory. In Jabalia, northern Gaza, Israeli forces reportedly killed 14 people, including seven children, in an attack on a home, according to the Palestinian Civil Defense agency. Approximately 20 individuals remain trapped under the rubble.

The Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that two additional Palestinians were killed and several others wounded in a separate attack in Deir el-Balah, while a drone strike in Khan Younis resulted in another fatality.

Gaza’s Ministry of Health stated that at least 51 Palestinians have been killed and 503 injured in Israeli attacks across the territory within the latest 24-hour reporting period.

Palestinian children wait for food
Palestinian children wait for food at a distribution point in Nuseirat in central Gaza on june 2, 2025 [AFP]

forced Displacement and Evacuation Orders

Despite increasing international condemnation, the Israeli military has ordered further displacement of civilians from parts of Khan Younis, issuing a warning that it would operate with great force. According to data from the Financial times, roughly 80% of the Gaza Strip is now either under Israeli military control or designated for forced evacuation, resulting in the concentration of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents into an increasingly smaller area in southern Gaza near the Egyptian border.

Israel has openly expressed its intention to permanently displace Gaza’s population, with officials promoting plans for voluntary migration. The Financial times reported that the areas to which Palestinians are being displaced resemble a desert wasteland with no running water, electricity or even hospitals. Satellite images indicate that Israeli forces are clearing land and establishing military infrastructure in evacuated areas.

Analysts reviewing numerous recent forced evacuation orders have observed an acceleration of this trend since the collapse of a truce in March.

The Israeli government has been very clear with regards to what their plan is about in Gaza. it is about ethnic cleansing.

Xavier Abu Eid, Political Analyst

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current humanitarian situation in Gaza?
the humanitarian situation is dire, with limited access to food, water, fuel, and medicine for over 2 million people. Thousands of children are at risk of starvation.
Why are aid distribution sites being targeted?
Conflicting accounts exist. The Israeli military claims they fire warning shots at individuals posing a threat, while witnesses report indiscriminate firing on civilians seeking aid.
What is the international community doing?
The UN and various international organizations have condemned the violence and called for independent investigations and accountability.

Pro Tip

Stay informed by following reputable news sources and humanitarian organizations working on the ground in Gaza. Understanding the complexities of the situation is crucial for informed advocacy and support.

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World

China’s New Hong Kong Court: A World Court Rival?

by Ethan Caldwell
written by Ethan Caldwell

China Establishes Mediation Organization in Hong Kong, Aiming to Rival ICJ

HONG KONG – May 16, 2024 – China has formally established the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed) in Hong Kong. The new body aims to offer an alternative to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for resolving conflicts. Representatives from several countries attended the signing ceremony, positioning Hong Kong as a global mediation hub. China’s initiative signals a important move with potentially far-reaching implications; expect more details to follow.

china Establishes international Mediation Organization in Hong Kong, Aiming too Rival ICJ

Beijing has formalized the convention on the Establishment of the International Organisation for mediation (IOMed), positioning Hong Kong as the headquarters for a new global conflict resolution body.The move is seen as an effort to bolster Hong Kong’s international standing and provide an alternative to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for resolving disputes.

Signing Ceremony and International Participation

  • The signing ceremony, presided over by chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi, took place in Hong Kong.
  • Representatives from several countries, including Indonesia, Pakistan, Laos, Cambodia, and Serbia, attended.
  • According to Hong Kong’s RTHK public broadcaster, 20 international bodies, including the United Nations, were also represented.

Did you know? The ICJ, also known as the World Court, is the principal judicial organ of the UN and has been the leading body for resolving legal disputes between member states since its establishment in 1945.

Scope and Objectives of IOMed

A video presentation at the signing ceremony outlined the intended scope of IOMed, which includes:

  • Disputes between countries.
  • Disputes between a country and nationals of another country.
  • Disputes between private international entities.

beijing aims to solidify Hong Kong’s role as a leading global mediation hub through IOMed,reinforcing the city’s international credentials.

Statements and Perspectives

China’s state-run Global times described IOMed as the world’s first intergovernmental international legal organisation dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation. The publication further stated that IOMed would fill a critical gap in mechanisms focused on mediation-based dispute resolution.

The Global Times added, The establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation marks a milestone in global governance and highlights the value of resolving conflicts in an ‘amicable way’.

Hong Kong’s Viewpoint

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu stated that IOMed’s status would be on par with UN bodies such as the ICJ and the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague. He also anticipates economic benefits, stating it would help bring ample economic benefits and job opportunities, as well as stimulate sectors including hospitality and transport.

Pro Tip: Mediation offers a non-binding,collaborative approach to conflict resolution,frequently enough leading to more amicable and sustainable outcomes compared to litigation or arbitration.

Economic and Political Context

Hong Kong has faced economic challenges since its handover to Chinese rule in 1997. Investor confidence has been affected by Beijing’s increasing control and concerns about China’s post-pandemic recovery.

Hong Kong’s Justice Secretary Paul Lam, in an opinion piece published in the South China Morning Post, suggested IOMed would help Hong Kong address challenges from hostile external forces that are attempting to de-internationalise and de-functionalise the city.

Lam added, To cope with such a challenge, Hong Kong needs to make good use of the IOMed headquarters as a focus for strengthening the city as an international dispute resolution center, so as to give full play to its institutional advantages under the ‘one country, two systems’ framework, referring to China’s governing model for Hong Kong.

Headquarters Location and Timeline

The IOMed headquarters is slated to open by the end of 2025 or early 2026 and will be located in a former police station in Hong Kong’s Wan Chai district.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is IOMed?

The International Organisation for Mediation, a new intergovernmental body based in Hong Kong, aimed at resolving international disputes through mediation.

Where will IOMed be located?

In a former police station in Hong Kong’s Wan Chai district.

When is IOMed expected to open?

By the end of 2025 or early 2026.

What types of disputes will IOMed handle?

Disputes between countries, between a country and nationals of another country, and between private international entities.

How does IOMed compare to the ICJ?

Beijing hopes IOMed will rival the ICJ as a leading conflict resolution body, offering mediation as an alternative to judicial proceedings.

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