“Heart-wrenching” testimony from survivors of atrocities in Iraq

Testimony from the survivors of atrocities committed by the ISIL terrorist group in Iraq has been described as “heart-wrenching” by the United Nations. Over 300,000 people from the Yezidi community escaped from the city of Sinjar following an attack in 2014. Many have detailed systematic and widespread killings, sexual violence and sexual slavery. Alpha Diallo has been speaking to Ravina Shamdasani, from the UN Human Rights office (OHCHR).

Timely medical attention crucial for South Sudanese sexual violence victims  

Timely medical attention, as well as the availability of services, is crucial for victims of sexual violence in South Sudan. That’s according to Dr Abraham Thubo from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which provides post-rape intervention services in the country. The UN documented more than 200 cases of sexual violence during clashes between government and opposition forces in and around the capital, Juba, in July. Dr Thubo explained that it is crucial for victims to seek timely medical care in case they have contracted a sexually transmitted infection or find themselves pregnant. Lucy Jubara asked him about UNFPA’s work in South Sudan.

Young girls of Rio's favelas attend Olympic Games

Three hundred-and-fifty girls from the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, were among the countless spectators cheering on athletes at the Olympic Games which recently wrapped up in that city. The girls take part in a pilot programme launched by UN Women with partnership from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The initiative, called One Win Leads to Another, uses sports to empower young women and girls, thus enabling them to take control of their lives. Laura Jarriel spoke to UN Women’s social media manager Beatrice Frey,who helped start the programme.

Presenter: Dianne Penn

Production Assistant: Sandra Guy

Duration: 10'00″