Switzerland: United Nations to establish global food crisis task force. The task force has been set up to address the continuing rise in global food prices and food shortages. The top priority will be funding the World Food Programme’s $775 million shortfall caused by rising prices.
United States: Bush proposes an extra $770 million in emergency food aid. The proposed increase has received a good response from lawmakers, and would bring total U.S. food aid to $2.6 billion. The additional aid would not be available until October.
Afghanistan: World Food Programme warns of food tragedy. A senior WFP official has urged the Afghan government, UN agencies and donors to combine efforts and address the increasing food insecurity in Afghanistan. The WFP is worried about what will happen after July, when the current emergency food aid will cease.
Health/natural disasters
China: Viral outbreak kills 22 children in the Anhui Province.The outbreak is caused by a potent intestinal virus, enterovirus 71, commonly known as hand, foot, and mouth disease. There is no vaccine or cure.
Myanmar: Widespread damage caused by Category 3 cyclone. Over 240 people have been killed and several towns flattened by Cyclone Nargis, which hit Yangon and the Irrawaddy delta on Saturday morning.
Myanmar: Burma’s constitutional referendum a sham says Human rights organisation.Human Rights Watch has released a report claiming the 10 May referendum on a new constitution is being marred by widespread repression, censorship, physical attacks, and intimidation.
Pakistan: Government ratifies UN human rights treaty.Amnesty International has applauded Pakistan’s recent ratification of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Pakistan has also recently signed two human rights treaties: the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.
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