51Ó°Ôº

Manuel Calloquispe Flores, a journalist for 15 years, has extensively investigated illegal gold mining in La Pampa, Peru, where criminal gangs exploit the region's biodiversity. Despite mining being prohibited due to its environmental impact, the area faces severe deforestation and mercury pollution. Calloquispe raises awareness about disappearances linked to mining and advocates for affected families, transitioning from business studies to journalism upon witnessing the mining crisis. Despite facing multiple assaults and death threats, he continues to report on these issues. Since 2022, UN Human Rights Peru has supported him, documenting numerous attacks against journalists and ensuring his safety through protective measures. His work highlights the significant dangers journalists face when exposing crime and environmental issues.

The Torkham border between Pakistan and Afghanistan has seen a surge of Afghan families returning home, driven by Pakistan¡¯s Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan. In April, around 144,000 Afghans returned, including nearly 30,000 deported individuals. Many, like Ezatullah and his seven children, arrived with few belongings and uncertain futures, having lived in Pakistan for decades. With rising unemployment and poverty in Afghanistan, Ezatullah worries about providing for his family, emphasizing the importance of education for his children. Meanwhile, deportations are also occurring in Iran. The UN Refugee Agency () is offering emergency assistance, urging for , particularly women and children, as funding cuts severely limit their capacity to help those in need.

Forests cover nearly one-third of the Earth's land, offering vital benefits such as soil and water protection, climate regulation, and biodiversity preservation. They provide essential materials like wood and fibers, as well as food and medicine, which support millions of livelihoods globally. The resilience and adaptability of forests and trees largely stem from their genetic diversity. But what makes forests and trees resilient and adaptable? The answer lies in their genetic diversity. The highlights the urgent need to conserve and sustainably utilize these genetic resources. This is crucial for addressing challenges like deforestation, climate change, and poverty. By advancing research, improving policies, and fostering global cooperation, we can protect forest genetic diversity, ensuring that forests continue to thrive and serve future generations.