The UN recorded over 4,600 survivors of conflict-related sexual violence in 2024, although Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasizes that the actual scope is likely much larger. The majority of these incidents were perpetrated by armed groups, although government forces were also implicated, Guterres' annual report says, highlighting that women and girls remain the primary victims, often targeted at home or while traveling or attempting to earn a living. Data also shows that sexual violence is routinely used as a weapon of war and affects victims ranging from infants to the elderly.

The UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances has postponed a visit to Canada -- where it was set to investigate the deaths and disappearances of Indigenous children at residential schools -- because of a lack of funding. "The postponement of the visit is not only a disappointment, but a continued delay in addressing the real systemic issues," says Linda Debassige, grand council chief of the Anishinabek Nation.

The number of victims of modern slavery has risen to nearly 50 million, the highest in history, endangering the UN goal to eradicate slavery by 2030, according to the Global Slavery Index. Despite anti-slavery laws and corporate pledges, modern slavery persists in various forms, fueled by global instability and sophisticated recruitment schemes. Local leaders and survivors are essential in combating this issue, demonstrating effective solutions through community-driven initiatives.

A baby has died in the Gambia after undergoing female genital mutilation, sparking outrage from women's rights advocates and highlighting the dangers of the practice. Two women have been arrested in connection with the incident. The country continues to grapple with one of the highest FGM rates worldwide, with 73% of women and girls between 15 and 49 affected, UNICEF data indicates.

Fifteen million primary-age girls worldwide are currently not enrolled in school, a UN Women report reveals. While global enrolment for both genders has improved, some regions still see as many as 48.1% of girls excluded from primary education. Girls, more than boys, continue to face systemic barriers to accessing and completing their education, the report says, noting that each additional year of schooling after the primary level substantially boosts a girl's chances of gaining employment, avoiding early marriage and improving health outcomes.

Negotiations for a global plastic pollution treaty have ended without an agreement after oil-producing nations and countries seeking to curb plastic production failed to reach a compromise. The talks in Geneva, which included representatives from 185 countries, highlighted the divide between nations wanting to focus on waste management and those aiming to reduce plastic production. Despite last-minute efforts to find common ground, the talks concluded with no deal.

More than 90% of new renewables capacity added worldwide in 2024 was cheaper than fossil fuels, the UN and the International Renewable Energy Agency report. While US natural gas prices are expected to double by 2026, renewable energy costs continue to decline due to Wright's Law. Renewables costs worldwide have declined by 2.5x to 4x over the last 10 years, with even greater declines seen for battery storage.

Sudanese women and girls are experiencing food insecurity at an alarming rate, with women-led households three times more likely to face severe hunger than male-led ones, UN Women reports, noting that the absence of men in many households during the country's civil war is exacerbating the crisis. The World Food Program can only reach a fraction of those in need due to funding and logistical barriers, leaving millions without regular support.