1. UNCTAD Warns Global Growth Slowing to 2.6% as Geopolitical Tensions Rise
The UN Conference on Trade and Development projects global economic growth will decelerate from 2.9% in 2025 to 2.6% this year, driven by elevated oil prices, shipping disruptions from Middle East conflicts, and weaker investment demand. World merchandise trade growth is expected to halve, falling from 4.7% to between 1.5% and 2.5%. Developing economies face the greatest pressure from rising fuel, food, and fertilizer costs. The report notes that recent trade growth has been concentrated in AI-related products like semiconductors, while broader commercial activity remains weak. UNCTAD called for stronger international cooperation and greater investment in renewable energy to buffer against future shocks.
2. Gaza Humanitarian Appeal Only 12% Funded as Food Assistance Shrinks
The UN’s 2026 Flash Appeal seeking over $4 billion for Gaza and the West Bank has received just $490 million — only 12% of what is needed to support nearly three million people. Aid agencies report that community kitchens are now serving one million meals per day, down from 1.8 million in February. One in five families is eating only once per day, with many mothers skipping meals so children can eat. Over 150 families were newly displaced from eastern Khan Younis and Gaza City over the weekend. Most of Gaza’s 2.1 million residents remain displaced, living in overcrowded shelters with deteriorating conditions.
3. South Sudan Violence Displaces Over 300,000 in Jonglei State
More than 304,000 people have been displaced in South Sudan’s Jonglei state since conflict escalated in January, across the counties of Uror, Nyirol, Ayod, Duk, and Akobo. Nearly 79,000 have since returned to their areas of origin, including over 44,000 from Ethiopia’s Gambella region. The newly appointed head of UNMISS, Anita Kiki Gbeho, said peacekeepers will remain in Akobo despite planned troop drawdowns due to ongoing insecurity. She warned that a cessation of hostilities and renewed commitment to implementing the Peace Agreement are urgently needed to restore public confidence and sustain humanitarian progress.
4. UN Chief Condemns Deadly Mosque Shooting in San Diego
Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego that left three people dead on Monday. Guterres called attacks on places of worship “particularly heinous” and stressed the urgent need to confront hatred and intolerance. Two teenage suspects were found dead nearby shortly after the attack, according to media reports. Authorities are investigating the incident as a possible hate crime. A security guard at the mosque was credited with preventing further casualties through a rapid response. Guterres extended condolences to the victims’ families and expressed solidarity with the Muslim community while calling for a full investigation.