Lebanon must act rapidly and form a new government to enact reforms and avoid disruptions to humanitarian aid in the wake of last week's explosion in Beirut, United Nations special coordinator for Lebanon Jan Kubis said following the resignation of federal leaders amid violent demonstrations. Echoing demands of the protesters, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is calling for a "credible and transparent" independent inquiry into the blast.

Global leaders and adults around the world must take steps to provide young people with safety, dignity and the chance to realize their potential, said United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in an address marking International Youth Day. "They ... are peacebuilders promoting social cohesion at a time of social distancing, advancing an end to violence globally and advocating harmony at a time of rising hatred," Guterres added.

Efforts to contain an Ebola outbreak in a northwestern province of the Democratic Republic of Congo are being hampered by the spread of coronavirus and measles, the World Health Organization said this week. "There is a lack of funding for the response, particularly that is required to prevent further spread, and inadequate human resources for risk communication and engagement in affected health zones and hotspots," the agency added.

Proposed legislation in Somalia that would permit child marriage with a family's permission once a girl reaches sexual maturity must not be passed, says United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet. The law could legitimize child marriage and other harmful practices, Bachelet says.

A team of United Nations experts has arrived in Mauritius to help contain an oil spill and limit damage to the local environment and population. Cleanup volunteers have expressed concern that the spill -- which was caused after a Japanese-owned tanker that hit a coral reef last month began leaking -- could cause a major environmental crisis.

The United Nations has voiced concern over escalating violence in Belarus as anti-government protests in the wake of a recent federal election continue. The UN is urging authorities in the country to "exercise restraint, to ensure respect for human rights, the democratic process, the rule of law."

Forest protection and tradition inspires young Indian to tackle climate crisis

On Wednesday's #YouthDay and throughout August follow #31DaysofYOUth to celebrate 1.8 billion young people around the world and their contributions to a better future for all. bit.ly/2xiizGn via @UNYouthEnvoy

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