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6 refugees speak out as UN-backed treaty to help people fleeing war and persecution marks 75 years

6 refugees speak out as UN-backed treaty to help people fleeing war and persecution marks 75 years

The U.N. refugee agency is marking the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention

Supreme Court Limits Alien Tort Statute, Impacting Human Rights Litigation

Supreme Court Limits Alien Tort Statute, Impacting Human Rights Litigation

The U.S. Supreme Court has significantly limited the scope of the Alien Tort Statute (ATS), a 1789 law that allowed foreign nationals to seek remedies in U.S. courts for human rights violations. In the case of Cisco Systems, Inc. v. Doe I, the Court ruled that federal courts cannot create new causes of action under the ATS, effectively closing the door on many human rights claims. This decision overturns a 2004 precedent and restricts the ATS to its original scope, covering only a narrow set of offenses recognized in 1789.

UN says human trafficking into Asian scam centres is surging

UN says human trafficking into Asian scam centres is surging

By Emma Farge GENEVA, July 28 (Reuters) - The U.N. migration agency on Tuesday warned of a dramatic increase in the number of people forced into working in Asian scam compounds, saying people from more than 80 countries have been lured in through social media, with some being sexually abused.

Jolie, Blanchett appeal for refugee protections as UN convention turns 75

Jolie, Blanchett appeal for refugee protections as UN convention turns 75

By Emma Farge GENEVA, July 28 (Reuters) - Actors Angelina Jolie and Cate Blanchett and Archbishop of Canterbury Sarah Mullally were among public figures who on Tuesday called for refugee protections to be upheld as the United Nations decried mounting pressure on asylum systems.

Palestinians say settler violence and military raids are bringing them to breaking point

Palestinians say settler violence and military raids are bringing them to breaking point

By Pesha Magid TAL, West Bank, July 27 (Reuters) - Palestinian villagers in the occupied West Bank said on Monday the area was coming close to breaking point after increasing incursions by Israeli settlers and violent stand-offs, such as one that left six people shot dead last week.

75th Anniversary of Refugee Convention Highlights Ongoing Challenges for Displaced Persons

75th Anniversary of Refugee Convention Highlights Ongoing Challenges for Displaced Persons

The 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention is being marked by reflections on its impact and ongoing challenges faced by refugees worldwide. The convention, established after World War II, has been instrumental in defining refugee rights and setting standards for their treatment. Despite its successes, the convention's principles are under strain as some countries, including the United States under President Trump, have implemented policies that restrict asylum seekers. Currently, over 41 million refugees remain forcibly displaced, with the majority hosted by low- and middle-income countries. The convention's core principle of 'non-refoulement' prohibits returning individuals to places where they face persecution, yet many nations hosting large refugee populations are not signatories, leaving millions without protection.

Congress Members Urge Trump Administration to Renew TPS for Salvadorans Amid Human Rights Concerns

Congress Members Urge Trump Administration to Renew TPS for Salvadorans Amid Human Rights Concerns

With the expiration of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for El Salvador looming on September 9, pressure is mounting on the Trump administration to renew the program. TPS has protected approximately 200,000 Salvadorans in the U.S. for 25 years. A letter led by Congressman James McGovern, signed by 80 members of Congress, highlights the ongoing humanitarian and human rights crises in El Salvador, exacerbated by the State of Exception imposed in March 2022. This measure has led to arbitrary detentions and other human rights abuses. The letter argues that ending TPS would expose returnees to these risks and strain El Salvador's economy, which is ill-equipped to absorb them. Representative Tom Suozzi advocates for a two-year extension to allow Congress to find a permanent solution.

The Constitutional Amendment That Powered Historic Court Decisions

The Constitutional Amendment That Powered Historic Court Decisions

The Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1868, has been a driving force behind numerous landmark Supreme Court decis...

Democratic Representatives Criticize U.S. Sanctions on Cuba as 'Inhumane'

Democratic Representatives Criticize U.S. Sanctions on Cuba as 'Inhumane'

Democratic representatives, including Maxine Dexter from Oregon, have publicly condemned the U.S. sanctions on Cuba, labeling them as 'inhumane.' This criticism follows a visit to Cuba by Dexter and other lawmakers, where they observed the impact of these sanctions firsthand. Dexter, a physician, highlighted the severe shortages of basic surgical supplies faced by Cuban doctors. The representatives argue that the sanctions, which have been in place for decades, are not serving national security interests but are instead politically motivated. They emphasize that these measures are causing significant harm to the Cuban population, with reports of increased infant mortality and decreased cancer survival rates. The lawmakers are urging a reevaluation of the U.S. policy towards Cuba, which they believe is causing unnecessary suffering.

Myanmar Junta Airstrikes Force Relocation of Telecom Scam Workers

Myanmar Junta Airstrikes Force Relocation of Telecom Scam Workers

In southern Myawaddy, near the Thai-Myanmar border, escalating military junta airstrikes have prompted the relocation of thousands of foreign nationals involved in illicit telecom scam operations. These individuals, primarily Chinese nationals, have been moving from the Kyaukkhet area to Sonseemyaing Village, the headquarters of the Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA). The airstrikes, which began intensifying on July 22, have caused significant displacement, with both foreign workers and local residents fleeing to safer areas, including across the border into Thailand. The DKBA has reportedly facilitated the relocation by providing transport for some of the workers. The U.S. Department of State has highlighted the area as a hub for cyber scam networks, and the FBI is collaborating with Thai authorities to address transnational cybercrime.

Myanmar military escalates civilian killings, monitor warns, amid diplomatic push

Myanmar military escalates civilian killings, monitor warns, amid diplomatic push

July 27 - Myanmar's military has sharply escalated attacks on civilians since a new administration took office in the war-torn country, a conflict monitor said on Monday, even as regional governments ramp up diplomatic engagement.

Ryan O’Grady Faces Extradition to South Sudan Amid Legal Controversy

Ryan O’Grady Faces Extradition to South Sudan Amid Legal Controversy

Ryan O’Grady, a Canadian citizen, is facing extradition from the United Arab Emirates to South Sudan over allegations made by his former employer, Kush Bank. O’Grady, who served in various roles including Acting CEO, resigned in April 2023. His wife, Virginia Chitengu O’Grady, has been advocating for a fair trial, citing a history of threats and a smear campaign against them following their involvement in a whistleblowing investigation. The couple, who lived in South Sudan for several years, became targets after their roles in the investigation were exposed. Virginia was detained and deported without trial, and Ryan has been under a travel ban in the UAE since an Interpol Red Notice was issued in October 2023. Virginia is calling on international bodies to ensure a transparent legal process for her husband.