The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has demanded a modification to the global economic system to assist the 46 Least Developed Countries. This is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals, with the intention of raising economic output, avoiding bankruptcy, and financing a low-carbon transition. UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan has said that the success of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is dependent on the advancement of these nations. To reach this aim, the Least Developed Countries need a financial injection equal to 45 percent of their total economic output, yet due to numerous international crises, the debt burden of these countries has risen to $27 billion. UNCTAD economists have suggested debt relief and improved access to development and climate finance, including grants and low-cost loans.
In Nepal, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck on 3 November, leading to 153 deaths and 338 injuries. According to UNICEF, almost half of the casualties were children. Alice Akunga, UNICEF Representative to Nepal, said that the survivors, particularly children, require medical aid, shelter, food, water, and warm clothing. The UN is currently on the ground assisting with relief efforts, but more help is needed.
The UN-appointed independent human rights experts have censured the Nicaraguan government for its arbitrary detention of Bishop Rolando José Álvarez and its harassment of members of the Catholic Church and other religious denominations. It is estimated that since 2022, the Nicaraguan government has cancelled the legal status of 1,000 non-profit organisations, 320 of which are religious. The government has also seized the facilities of the Central American University (UCA) and two other Christian universities, and has been stifling criticism of the government. The experts have called for the immediate and unconditional release of Monsignor Álvarez and for the protection of the right to freedom of religion or belief in the country.