May 2016

(CNN) The leader of a Pakistani Islamic council has proposed a bill that allows husbands to “lightly beat” their wives as a form of discipline. In the 75-page proposal, Mohammad Khan Sheerani suggests a light beating is acceptable should the need arise to punish a woman. The proposal bans forceful beating, saying only a small stick is necessary to instill fear. The Council of Islamic Ideology is a powerful constitutional body that advises the Pakistani legislature whether laws are in […]

The WNC welcomes the return of the first Chibok teenager who escape from Boko Haram’s Sambisa Forest stronghold. Let’s hope her freedom adds pressure on international bodies and the government to do more to rescue the 218 other missing girls. The 19-year-old, who was 17 when she was kidnapped, was with her mother carrying her 4-month-old baby. It is indeed the force of women who defy fundamentalists who will stop further pain and sufferings.

Are there more males or females in our world today? The answer – males – surprises most people, even those in global affairs and development working to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment. Our planet gives birth – and life – to more boys than girls. 105 boys for every 100 girls. Though this seems insignificant at first glance, a deeper look will reveal its global impact. In fact, we can see more clearly how it’s fueling violence and extremism […]

The United Nations has enlisted Oscar-winning Australian actor Cate Blanchett to help raise awareness about the plight of refugees, amid a massive global displacement crisis. The UN refugee agency said it had appointed Blanchett as its newest goodwill ambassador, a role also held by US film star Angelina Jolie. “I am deeply proud to take on this role,” Blanchett said in a statement, stressing that “there has never been a more crucial time to stand with refugees and show solidarity”. […]

Khadija Ismayilova, an investigative journalist from Azerbaijan, has been chosen to receive the 2016 UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize. The Prize will be awarded during the celebration of World Press Freedom Day,3 May, hosted by Finland this year. An independent international jury of media professionals recommended Ms Ismayilova in recognition of her outstanding contribution to press freedom in difficult circumstances. “Khadija Ismayilova highly deserves the Prize and I am happy to see that her courage and professionalism are recognized,” said Ljiljana Zurovac, Chair […]