IHRC - USA

05/09/2026

The United Nations General Assembly voted to adopt a new world map that reflects countries’ true relative sizes, after African nations urged the UN to right a centuries-old wrong.

Yes. This is a real and very recent UN development, but there is an important nuance: the UN General Assembly did not legally ban the Mercator map. It adopted a non-binding resolution promoting more accurate world-map projections, particularly the Equal Earth projection.

🌍 What happened?

On September 4, 2026, the UN General Assembly adopted the “Correct the Map” resolution:

164 countries voted in favour

6 abstained

1 voted against — the United States

The initiative was led by Togo and supported by the African Union.

It promotes the Equal Earth projection, which represents the relative areas of continents much more accurately.

🗺️ Why does the map matter?

The traditional Mercator projection, created by Gerardus Mercator in 1569, was designed primarily for maritime navigation. It preserves useful directional properties for sailors, but it greatly exaggerates the apparent size of areas closer to the poles.

For example:

Africa is about 14 times larger than Greenland, yet on a Mercator map they can appear surprisingly similar in size.

The Equal Earth projection gives a much more faithful visual comparison of continental areas.

🇦🇫 Why African countries pushed for the change

African governments argued that the problem isn't merely technical cartography. They say centuries of distorted maps have contributed to a “symbolic minimization” of Africa in people's mental image of the world.

Togo's Foreign Minister Robert Dussey framed the campaign as an issue of geographical accuracy, dignity and historical representation.

The resolution also highlights possible effects on education, culture, geopolitics, socioeconomic perceptions and development priorities.

⚠️ One important clarification

This does not mean that every map in the world must immediately change.

The UN resolution is non-binding. It encourages governments, international organizations, educational institutions and technology companies to use more accurate area-preserving projections. The Mercator projection can still remain useful for navigation and specific technical purposes.

In simple terms: the UN has taken a major symbolic and educational step toward saying, “The world should be represented more accurately—not just according to a map designed for a particular historical purpose.”

04/09/2026

04/09/2026

Joining the Fight for Humanity: A Warm Welcome to Our New IHRC-USA Volunteers!

📅 Published: September 03, 2026 | 👤 By: IHRC-USA Executive Management | 🏷️ Category: Community & Volunteering

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC-USA) extends its warmest and most prideful welcome to all our newly onboarded volunteers!

Our organization operates with a deep, unwavering dedication to protecting global human rights, defending the vulnerable, and establishing social justice. By choosing to step forward, you have answered a vital call to promote peace, equality, and human dignity worldwide.

The collective effort of dedicated individuals like you is the ultimate driving force behind monumental, lasting change in our world. Welcome to the family!

Why Your Role Matters Now More Than Ever
Human rights are not merely abstract concepts written in law books. They are the fundamental, unalienable rights that allow every single individual to live freely, safely, and with dignity.
Unfortunately, millions of people worldwide still suffer from poverty, discrimination, violence, and systematic injustice. As an IHRC-USA volunteer, your primary duty is to become a voice for the voiceless. Whether you are working locally or contributing globally, your unique skills, time, and hard work will directly strengthen our humanitarian missions and uplift grassroots communities.

Key Responsibilities: How You Will Make an Impact
As an integral pillar of our global network, you will have the opportunity to actively engage in several core areas:

• 📢 Raising Awareness: Educating local communities about their fundamental human rights and legal protections.

• 🤝 Supporting the Affected: Providing essential aid, relief coordination, and moral support to victims of injustice and natural disasters.

• 🌐 Driving Digital Campaigns: Spreading the organization’s humanitarian principles, press releases, and advocacy campaigns across social media platforms.

• 📅 Organizing Community Events: Leading and coordinating local seminars, free medical camps, educational support programs, and workshops.

• 📝 Reporting Violations: Gathering accurate, objective data regarding human rights violations in your locality and safely reporting them to our headquarters.

🚀 Upcoming 2026 Flagship Campaigns

This year, our new volunteers will have the unique opportunity to dive directly into our top global priorities:

1. Education for All Campaign 2026: Breaking barriers to ensure children in marginalized communities gain access to primary education and secure learning environments.

2. Digital Rights & Safety Initiative: Safeguarding human rights in the digital space by advocating for data privacy, fighting cyber-bullying, and promoting online safety.

3. The Climate Justice Project: Addressing the human rights impacts of environmental degradation and supporting communities displaced by climate challenges.

Benefits of Volunteering: Your Growth Journey
Working with IHRC-USA is not just a service to society; it is a powerful catalyst for your personal and professional development:

• 📜 International Recognition: Upon successful completion of your service milestones, you will receive a globally recognized Volunteer Certificate to elevate your career or academic portfolio.

• 📈 Leadership Development: By managing local chapters and leading large-scale projects, you will significantly sharpen your communication, project management, and problem-solving skills.

• 🌍 Global Networking: You gain a unique, direct pipeline to collaborate with international human rights activists, legal experts, policymakers, and social leaders from various countries.

• ❤️ Inner Satisfaction: You will experience the unmatched sense of fulfillment that only comes from knowing your actions directly changed someone's life for the better.

Moving Forward: Your Next Steps
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world." As a new volunteer, you carry the torch of humanity high. You are the light against injustice.

To ensure you have a seamless onboarding experience, please complete the following steps:

1. Check your inbox for your official orientation packet and digital ID guidelines. (If you haven't received it, please contact us at [email protected]).

2. Join our global volunteer portal to connect with your local chapter leader.

3. Follow our official social media channels to stay updated on upcoming campaigns.

Thank you for your commitment to making the world a safer, fairer place for everyone. Let’s build a brighter future, together!

🏢 About IHRC-USA
The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC-USA) is a premier international non-governmental organization operating in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and National Human Rights. Our primary mission is to stand firmly against human rights violations worldwide while fostering peace, tolerance, and global equality.

For more information: [email protected]

03/09/2026

03/09/2026

INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL – USA (IHRC-USA)

Research, Human Rights & Justice Division

ERITREA: HUMAN RIGHTS SITUATION, GOVERNANCE, JUSTICE AND THE PROTECTION OF CIVILIAN LIFE

A Comprehensive Human Rights Research & Policy Report — 2026

Theme: Human Dignity, Freedom, Accountability and Justice for All
Research focus: Human rights + Rule of law + Arbitrary detention + Enforced disappearance + Indefinite national service + Freedom of expression + Religious freedom + Women and children + Refugees + Accountability + International responsibility

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Eritrea remains one of the world's most restrictive environments for civil and political rights. Recent reporting by the UN human-rights system, Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International continues to identify serious concerns involving indefinite national and military service, forced labour, arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, restrictions on freedom of expression and association, religious freedom, and the absence of meaningful democratic participation.

The country's political system has remained highly centralized since independence in 1993. Human Rights Watch reports that no national elections have been held since independence, the legislature has not met since 2010, and no political party other than the People's Front for Democracy and Justice has been permitted to operate.

One of the most serious structural concerns is the indefinite national-service system. Although Eritrean law provides for an 18-month period, credible international reporting indicates that many Eritreans remain in military or civilian national service for years or even decades, often under coercive conditions and with limited control over their work or place of assignment.

The situation of people deprived of liberty is also deeply concerning. Reports describe prolonged arbitrary detention without charge or judicial review, secret or undisclosed detention, enforced disappearance and detention of perceived political critics, journalists, religious figures and others considered disloyal to the authorities.

The UN Human Rights Council renewed the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea in July 2025. The resolution was adopted by a vote of 23 in favour, 4 against and 20 abstentions, demonstrating continuing international concern about the country's human-rights situation.

IHRC-USA's central assessment is that Eritrea requires sustained, independent human-rights monitoring, meaningful institutional reform, protection of victims and families, an end to indefinite national service, release or lawful processing of arbitrarily detained persons, restoration of fundamental freedoms, and credible accountability for serious violations.

2. INTRODUCTION
Eritrea is a country with a complex history shaped by colonialism, a long struggle for independence, armed conflict and regional insecurity. These historical circumstances are important to understand, but they cannot be used to justify permanent restrictions on fundamental human rights.
National security and sovereignty are legitimate interests of every State. However, they do not remove a government's obligation to respect human dignity, the rule of law and fundamental rights.
International human-rights standards apply during periods of peace, political tension and national-security concerns. The protection of human life and dignity must remain at the centre of governance.
IHRC-USA therefore approaches the situation in Eritrea from a victim-centred, evidence-based and international-human-rights perspective.

3. CURRENT HUMAN RIGHTS SITUATION
3.1 Overall Situation
International reporting continues to describe Eritrea as a country where civic space is extremely restricted and where fundamental freedoms are severely limited. Human Rights Watch's 2026 country report states that the government maintained extensive control over the population and continued restrictions on opinion, religion and expression.
The UN Special Rapporteur's 2025 report covered the period from April 2024 to April 2025 and continued to document concerns regarding civic space, detention, national service and other fundamental rights.
These concerns should not be interpreted as a judgment against the Eritrean people. On the contrary, they demonstrate the need to distinguish between the people of Eritrea and the policies and actions of State institutions.

4. RULE OF LAW AND DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE
4.1 Absence of National Elections
Eritrea has not held national elections since independence in 1993. Human Rights Watch reports that the country's 1997 constitution has not been implemented and that the legislature has not met since 2010.
The absence of meaningful electoral participation raises fundamental questions concerning:
Political representation;
Accountability of public officials;
Separation of powers;
Public participation in government;
Legislative oversight;
Judicial independence; and
Peaceful political competition.

IHRC-USA position
A State's institutions should ultimately serve the people.
Citizens must have meaningful and lawful opportunities to participate in public affairs and to hold public authorities accountable.

5. INDEFINITE NATIONAL AND MILITARY SERVICE
This is one of the most serious human-rights concerns in Eritrea.
Eritrean law provides for national service of 18 months, but international reporting indicates that in practice service has frequently continued indefinitely. Human Rights Watch's 2026 report states that Eritreans can remain in military or civilian assignments for years or decades.
Amnesty International reported that indefinite forced military conscription persisted and that the system sometimes amounted to slavery. It also reported concerns about inhuman or degrading conditions, torture and sexual and gender-based violence connected with national service.

Problems associated with indefinite service include:
Loss of freedom of choice concerning employment;
Prolonged military control over civilian life;
Forced labour;
Inadequate remuneration;
Arbitrary punishment;
Restrictions on family life;
Restrictions on education;
Restrictions on freedom of movement;
Exposure to abuse; and
Long-term separation from families.

IHRC-USA recommendation
The Government of Eritrea should:
1. Enforce the statutory maximum duration of national service;
2. End indefinite service;
3. Demobilize persons who have completed the legally required period;
4. Establish meaningful civilian alternatives for conscientious objectors;
5. End forced labour;
6. Investigate allegations of torture and sexual violence;
7. Protect minors from coercive military recruitment;
8. Establish independent monitoring of military-service conditions.

Publication principle: Equal Justice for Everyone & Everywhere.
> *This report is intended for human-rights research, awareness, policy advocacy and public-interest education. Allegations concerning specific individuals or incidents should be independently verified and assessed according to applicable national and international law.*

02/09/2026

UN SDG & UNIP SADG SUMMIT 2026 and Awards co-hosted by UNIP AND IHRC-USA.

Event Time: October 31, 2026 (10 AM to 6 PM)
Starts at 10:00 AM
(Must arrive before 9 AM)

Event Venue:
The Westin Dhaka, Main Gulshan Avenue, Plot-01 Road 45, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh.

Contact Us:+880 1715-034120
+94703209109 (WhatsApp) or
[email protected]

✍️ Register today.
Register via the official link
https://forms.gle/XGeGfpBzZSD1epE26

Environment • Education • Food and Shelter • Human Rights • Sustainable Development Goals • Lifelong Learning • Access for All • Respect and Equality • Developing Leaders • A Peaceful • Sustainable Development World.

02/09/2026

📄 RESEARCH REPORT: Scientific Breakdown of the Bhotekoshi–Trishuli Flood Disaster 🌐🌊
Global disaster research bodies (IRDR) and geomorphologists have published initial satellite mapping and flow velocity data regarding the recent border disaster.
Key Finding: Ice-rock mass failure formed temporary natural blockages prior to breaching.
Impact Assessment: Trimlines indicate peak flow heights reaching dozens of meters in narrow river gorges.
Stay informed with verified findings.

01/09/2026

01/09/2026

Ven.Dr.Raju Lama P Kondan
Commissioner,
International Human Rights Council-USA,
Nepal Chapter.

FORMAL FIELD-VISIT & HUMANITARIAN SITUATION ASSESSMENT REPORT.

Date of Field Visit: August 30, 2026

Field-Visit Locations: Bidur, Nuwakot, and Devighat, Nuwakot, Nepal.

Organizations: International Human Rights Council-USA & United Nature International Peace.

Purpose: Field observation, humanitarian assessment, and identification of immediate needs of disaster-affected communities.

1. INTRODUCTION
International Human Rights Council-USA & United Nature International Peace, conducted a field visit to the disaster-affected areas of Bidur, Nuwakot, and Devighat to personally observe the consequences of the recent natural disaster and assess the humanitarian conditions of affected communities.

The field visit was undertaken with the participation of the Commissioner, IHRC-USA and Leaders, Executive Members of UNIP. The visit provided an opportunity to witness the situation firsthand, interact with affected communities, observe the extent of damage, and identify areas where humanitarian assistance may be required.
The situation observed during the field visit was deeply distressing. Many individuals and families appeared to be facing significant hardship, uncertainty, and emotional distress following the disaster.

2. FIELD OBSERVATIONS

During the field visit, the following conditions were observed:

2.1 Humanitarian Situation
● Affected families were experiencing significant emotional and physical hardship.
● Some families had lost or been displaced from their homes and essential belongings.
● People were living with uncertainty regarding their safety, shelter, food, and future livelihood.
● Families who had lost loved ones were experiencing profound grief and emotional suffering.
● Vulnerable individuals appeared to require immediate humanitarian attention and continued support.

2.2 Damage and Displacement
The field team observed areas affected by the destructive force of the natural disaster. The consequences included damage to homes, property, infrastructure, and essential resources.
The situation demonstrated the urgent need for coordinated humanitarian assistance and longer-term recovery programs.

2.3 Impact on Animals
The field team also observed innocent domestic and other animals affected by the disaster. Their condition highlighted the importance of including animal welfare and protection within humanitarian and disaster-response programs.

2.4 Emotional and Psychological Impact
The atmosphere among affected communities was marked by sadness, fear, uncertainty, and grief. The field experience demonstrated that humanitarian assistance should address not only physical needs but also the psychological and emotional well-being of disaster-affected people.

3. IMMEDIATE NEEDS IDENTIFIED

Based on the field observations, the following areas require particular attention:

A. Emergency Shelter
● Temporary shelter for families whose homes have been destroyed or rendered unsafe.
● Tarpaulins, blankets, mattresses, and other essential shelter materials.

B. Food and Drinking Water
● Immediate food supplies for affected families.
● Safe drinking water and water-purification materials.
● Essential cooking and household supplies.

C. Clothing and Essential Household Items
● Clothing appropriate to the affected families’ needs.
● Hygiene materials and basic household necessities.

D. Medical and Health Assistance
● Basic medical supplies and emergency healthcare.
● Special attention to children, older persons, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable individuals.

E. Psychosocial Support
● Emotional and psychological support for people who have experienced loss, displacement, or trauma.
● Special care for children and families who have lost loved ones.

F. Livelihood Recovery
● Assistance to families who have lost their means of livelihood.
● Support for rebuilding sustainable sources of income.

G. Animal Protection
● Food, veterinary care, shelter, and emergency assistance for disaster-affected animals.

4. RECOMMENDATIONS

Following the field assessment, IHRC-USA & UNIP recommends the following actions:

1. Immediate humanitarian assistance should be provided to the most severely affected families.

2. Government authorities, local organizations, humanitarian agencies, donors, and international partners should coordinate their efforts to avoid duplication and ensure assistance reaches those most in need.

3. A transparent beneficiary-identification and needs-assessment system should be established to prioritize vulnerable households.

4. Emergency shelter, food, drinking water, medical care, sanitation, and hygiene should remain immediate priorities.

5. Psychological and psychosocial support programs should be incorporated into disaster-response activities.

6. Particular attention should be given to children, older persons, persons with disabilities, single-parent households, displaced families, and families who have lost loved ones.

7. Recovery programs should extend beyond emergency relief and include housing reconstruction, livelihood restoration, education, healthcare, and community rehabilitation.

8. Animal welfare should be incorporated into disaster-response and recovery programs.

9. International humanitarian organizations and donors should be encouraged to support Nepal’s recovery efforts through coordinated and accountable assistance.

10. Regular follow-up field visits should be conducted to monitor changing needs and evaluate the effectiveness of assistance.