Tag Archives: threats

From deepfakes to grooming: UN warns of escalating AI threats to children

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Cosmas Zavazava, Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau at the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) – one of the key agencies that drafted the statement, which includes guidelines and recommendations – catalogues a dizzying array of ways that children are targeted. 

This extends from grooming to deepfakes, the embedding of harmful features, cyberbullying and inappropriate content: “We saw that, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many children, particularly girls and young women, were abused online and, in many cases, that translated to physical harm,” he says.

Organisations that advocate for children report that predators can use AI to analyse a child’s online behaviour, emotional state, and interests to tailor their grooming strategy. 

AI is also enabling offenders to generate explicit fake images of real children, driving a new form of sexual extortion.

The Childlight Global Child Safety Institute, an independent global institute established to gather the most reliable data available on child sexual exploitation and abuse, found in a 2025 report that technology‑facilitated child abuse cases in the US increased from 4,700 in 2023 to more than 67,000 in 2024.

Young adults check social media in North Macedonia.

Australia leads the way 

UN Member States are taking stronger measures, as they learn about the scale and severity of the problem.

At the end of 2025, Australia became the first nation in the world to ban social-media accounts for children under 16, on the basis that the risks from the content they share far outweighs the potential benefits.

The Government there cited a report it had commissioned, which showed that almost two-thirds of children aged between 10 and 15 had viewed hateful, violent or distressing content and more than half had been cyberbullied. Most of this content was seen on social media platforms.

Several other countries, including Malaysia, the UK, France and Canada, look set to follow Australia’s lead, preparing regulations and laws for similar bans or restrictions. 

AI-illiteracy

And, at the beginning of 2026, a wide variety of UN bodies with a stake in child safety put their names to a Joint Statement on Artificial Intelligence and the Rights of the Child, published on 19 January, which pulls no punches in its description of the risks – and society’s collective inability to cope with them.

The statement identifies a lack of AI literacy among children, teachers, parents and caregivers, as well as a dearth of technical training for policymakers and governments on AI frameworks, data protection methods and child rights impact assessments.

Responsibility of the tech giants

Tech companies are also in the frame: the statement says that most of the AI-supported tools they make – along with their underlying models, techniques and systems – are currently not designed with children and their well-being in mind. 

“We are really concerned and we would like the private sector to be involved, to engage, to be part of the story that we are writing together with the other UN agencies and other players who believe that technology can be an enabler, but it can also destroy,” says Mr. Zavazava.

The senior UN official is confident however, that these businesses are committed to making their tools safer. 

“Initially, we got the feeling that they were concerned about stifling innovation, but our message is very clear: with responsible deployment of AI, you can still make a profit, you can still do business, you can still get market share. 

“The private sector is a partner, but we have to raise a red flag when we see something that is going to lead to unwanted outcomes. 

We have regular meetings where we talk about their responsibilities, and some of them already have statements on how they should protect populations and children. It is our duty together to be fighting the ills that come with the technology.”

A children’s rights issue

While the UN bodies named in the document (full list below) stress the need for these companies to make sure their products are designed to respect children’s rights, they are also calling on all parts of society to take responsibility for the way they are used.

This is far from the first time that concerns have been raised from a rights perspective: in 2021, new language was attached to the Convention on the Rights of the Child – a cornerstone of international child rights law and the most ratified human rights treaty in history – to reflect the dangers of the digital age.

However, the UN bodies feel more guidance is needed to help countries regulate more effectively and have produced a comprehensive list of recommendations.

“Children are getting online at a younger age, and they should be protected, says Mr. Zavazava. That’s why we set out these child online protection guidelines. The first part of the guidelines addresses parents, the second is for the teachers, the third part is for regulators, and the fourth is relevant to industry and private sector.”

Peacekeeping: Lacroix warns of rising threats to ‘blue helmets’ in Middle East

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Briefing journalists by video link from Jeddah following an extensive visit to the region, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, said there has been an uptick in dangerous incidents involving peacekeepers and the fragile environment in which missions are operating.

He added that UN missions are continuing to deliver on their mandates despite increasingly challenging conditions on the ground.

“There is no pre-drawdown mandate,” Mr. Lacroix said of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), stressing that the mission will continue to operate under its current authorisation until the end of December 2026.

UNIFIL, he said, remains focused on supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and advancing implementation of Security Council resolution 1701, which brought an end to hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in 2006.

Mr. Lacroix said cooperation with Lebanese authorities and the LAF remained “excellent,” and welcomed recent statements by the Government regarding progress in establishing operational control in the south, while acknowledging that “a number of things remain to be done.”

Increasing danger

At the same time, he expressed grave concern over a growing number of hostile incidents affecting UN peacekeepers, particularly those involving the Israeli Defense Forces.

“The frequency of these incidents has been quite high – it has been increasing,” he said, warning that several encounters “could have had very tragic consequences” for peacekeepers.

He said he had raised the issue with Israeli counterparts, stressing that “it is in no one’s interest to put the lives of peacekeepers at risk,” and reminded all parties of their responsibility to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel.

Mr. Lacroix also described widespread devastation in southern Lebanon, where entire villages and civilians remain unable to return to their homes, undermining prospects for recovery and reconstruction.

Beyond security risks, Mr. Lacroix highlighted the impact of funding shortfalls on peacekeeping operations, noting that UNIFIL and other missions have had to implement savings plans due to delayed or incomplete contributions by some Member States.

He praised peacekeepers for adapting under pressure, saying they had “succeeded in mitigating the impact” of financial constraints through innovation and operational adjustments.

Syria and regional dynamics

Turning to Syria, Mr. Lacroix said the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) continues to carry out its mandate with strong backing from both the Security Council and Syrian authorities.

However, he noted that conditions on the ground have changed significantly since Israeli forces established positions inside the area of separation defined by the 1974 disengagement agreement.

Established in May 1974, following the Yom Kippur War, UNDOF is mandated to maintain the ceasefire between Israel and Syria, and supervise the areas of separation as provided in the 1974 agreement.

“What we would want is a return to the situation where UNDOF would be the only military presence in the area of separation,” Mr. Lacroix said, describing recent talks between Israel and Syria, mediated by the United States, as “positive.”

UN Photo/Wolfgang Grebien

UNDOF peacekeepers on patrol in the Golan Heights.

Mine action and wider needs

He also underscored the growing importance of UN mine action efforts in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza and the Occupied Palestinian Territory overall, saying needs were “huge” and urging greater donor support.

“We are willing to do more,” Mr. Lacroix said, stressing that additional resources would be critical to protect civilians and support recovery in conflict-affected areas.

Torture, threats and arbitrary arrests: UN warns of ‘serious abuses’ against Afghans forced to return

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These abuses include threats, cases of torture, mistreatment and arbitrary arrest and detention, according to the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

The report said these violations were committed against Afghans “based on their profile” and targeted women, media workers and civil society members as well as individuals affiliated with the former government that fell in 2021 and its security forces, despite the Taliban’s claims that such individuals benefit from an amnesty.

“No one should be returned to a country where they are at risk of being persecuted because of their identity or personal history,” said Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

“In Afghanistan, this situation is even more pronounced for women and girls, who are subjected to a series of measures that amount to persecution solely on the basis of their gender.”

Since 2023 and the start of large-scale deportation campaigns launched by Iran and Pakistan, millions of Afghans have returned to their country. In 2025 alone, more than 1.8 million people have returned to Afghanistan, 1.5 million of them from Iran.

Women under house arrest

The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, recently estimated that the total could reach three million by the end of the year, returning to a country facing a severe humanitarian crisis.

The situation of women forcibly returned is particularly dire. A former television journalist, who left the country after the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, described how, after being involuntarily returned to Afghanistan, she saw her prospects vanish.

“I am very worried for my personal safety and feel immense frustration with the current situation imposed on women in [my province]. I can unequivocally say that I am effectively under house arrest. There are no job opportunities, no freedom of movement and no access to education – whether to learn or to teach – for women and girls,” she testified.

Many people are also forced to live in hiding since returning to Afghanistan due to real or feared threats from the de facto authorities. This is the case for individuals affiliated with the former government and its security forces, who have had to go into hiding for fear of reprisals, despite the public amnesty announced by the de facto authorities.

Living in hiding

A former official described how, after returning in 2023, he was detained for two nights in a house where he was severely tortured, beaten with sticks, cables and wood, subjected to water torture and faced a mock execution.

Other refugees returned from Iran must frequently change locations to avoid being identified, such as one former judge.

“I try to stay hidden because I know that the prisoners who were detained because of my decisions are now senior government officials and are still looking for me. If they find me, I’m sure they’ll kill me. They already threatened me when I was a judge,” they said.

Faced with these serious abuses, the UN is urging States not to return anyone to Afghanistan who faces a real risk of serious human rights violations.

“Member States should expand resettlement opportunities for at-risk Afghans and ensure their protection, giving priority to those most likely to suffer human rights violations if returned to Afghanistan, including women and girls, individuals affiliated with the former government and security forces, media professionals, civil society activists and human rights defenders,” the report said.

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In Berlin, broad backing for UN peacekeeping as global threats mount

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UN Secretary-General António Guterres meanwhile warned that peace operations are under growing strain and must adapt to meet today’s rising threats.

The two-day conference on peacekeeping, hosted by the Government of Germany, brought together over 1,000 participants – including defence and foreign ministers – to reaffirm commitment to the UN’s flagship tool for maintaining peace and stability.

It concluded on Wednesday with a wide array of pledges, including 88 military and police units, specialized training, and investments in emerging technologies and strategic communications.

Difference between life and death

“In trouble spots around the world, ‘blue helmets’ can mean the difference between life and death,” Mr. Guterres said in his opening remarks.

“Now more than ever, the world needs the United Nations. And the United Nations needs peacekeeping that is fully equipped for today’s realities and tomorrow’s challenges.”

Germany, which currently contributes troops to UN missions in South Sudan, Lebanon, and Western Sahara, announced €82 million (around $91.7 million) in funding, along with commitments in training, renewable energy solutions and drone technology.

“Germany continues to be a steadfast supporter of UN peacekeeping,” said Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.

Broad and diverse commitments

A total of 74 UN Member States made specific pledges, ranging from uniformed personnel to training and strategic support.

This includes pledges which will bolster military and police units, including airlift and rapid deployment capabilities (53 national contributions), specialized training (59), technological enhancements (18), advancing the Women, Peace and Security Agenda (38) and safety and protection (16).

Eleven countries also committed to improving accountability and conduct, including support to the trust fund for victims of sexual exploitation and abuse, and eight nations supporting the UN’s efforts to counter mis- and disinformation through strategic communications.

Deminers with the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali, MINUSMA, clearing an airstrip in Kidal region. (file photo)

Mounting pressures

At a press conference following the meeting, Secretary-General Guterres acknowledged that peacekeepers operate in an increasingly complex and dangerous environment, citing a record number of global conflicts, the targeting of peacekeepers by drones and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and the rising threat from disinformation campaigns.

“We need to ask some tough questions about the mandates guiding these operations, and what the outcomes and solutions should look like,” he said, speaking alongside German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and Defence Minister Pistorius.

“Every context is different, and missions must be adapted accordingly.”

The UN chief also stressed the importance of sustained financial backing, highlighting that many missions continue to struggle with cash flow shortages due to delayed payments from Member States.

“It is absolutely essential that all Member States respect their financial obligations, paying their contributions in full and on time,” he said.

Crucial reforms

The Berlin meeting feeds into the UN’s broader reform efforts, including an ongoing Review of Peace Operations announced in last year’s Pact for the Future, aimed at making peacekeeping and peace enforcement more flexible, cost-effective, and aligned with real-world needs.

This year’s Ministerial also coincides with the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and the 10-year anniversary of the 2015 New York Summit on Peacekeeping. It follows similar high-level meetings in Accra, Seoul, Vancouver and London.

Peacekeeping remains one of the UN’s most visible activities, with over 61,000 uniformed personnel from 119 countries currently deployed across 11 missions, supported by more than 7,000 civilian staff.

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Journalism facing new threats from AI and censorship

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“Amidst spiraling conflict, climate chaos, growing divisions, and a rapidly changing digital landscape, a free press is more vital than ever,” said Volker Türk.

Furthermore, “the media help us understand the world around us and encourage critical thinking and dialogue.”

Threats and deaths

Free and independent media are the best antidote to disinformation but press freedom is under threat in every region of the world, he warned.

“States harass, detain, torture and even kill media workers, simply for doing their jobs” while “in some conflict zones, warring parties restrict or deny access to journalists.”

He noted that since January, at least 20 people who work in media have been killed and impunity for crimes against journalists remains widespread, with more than 80 per cent of killings going unpunished.

AI rewards…and risks

Mr. Türk said this year’s observance of press freedom is a reminder that media repression is increasing while artificial intelligence (AI) is entirely overhauling how information is produced, distributed, and consumed.

Although AI can be a useful tool for journalists, it also carries significant risks for press freedom, he warned.

“AI-based algorithms often dictate what we see, shaping our opinions and perceptions of reality. Politicians use AI to weaponize disinformation and advance their own agendas,” he said.

“States are also using AI tools to monitor journalists and their sources online, violating their right to privacy. This has a chilling effect on media workers everywhere. And women journalists are disproportionately targeted.”

Concentration of power

Furthermore, “a small group of corporations and individuals have almost total control over AI technology and influence on the global media landscape.”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres also highlighted the opportunities and risks posed by AI in his message on press freedom.

“Biased algorithms, outright lies, and hate speech are landmines on the information superhighway.  Accurate, verifiable, fact-based information is the best tool to defuse them,” he said.

He pointed to the Global Digital Compact adopted last year by UN Member States, which includes “concrete steps to strengthen international cooperation to promote information integrity, tolerance and respect in the digital space.”

Change course now

Mr. Türk said World Press Freedom Day is an opportunity for everyone to urgently commit to changing course now, starting with States.

They must ensure that journalists are safe from attacks, hate campaigns and surveillance, as well as physical and legal harassment.

“It is crucial to have more transparency in how data is used, how content is curated, and how algorithms are designed.”

Media concentration laws – that is, legislation around ownership of mass media outlets – also must be updated to reflect the power of AI and tech platforms and promote a diverse media landscape that secures space for independent journalism.

Meanwhile, tech companies have a crucial role. In this regard, Mr. Turk announced that his Office and UN educational and cultural agency UNESCO are offering guidance to help tech companies assess the risks their tools pose to journalists and civil society.

 “A free, independent, and diverse media can help to heal the divisions in our societies. We must do everything in our power to protect it and allow it to flourish,” he said. 

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Even Knife to My Throat Won’t Force Me Say ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai: Owaisi

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The religious divide in India is getting worse with the Hindu nationalists, especially the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideology wing of Hindu Sanghis calling for imparting education to all Indians to say “Bharat Mata ki Jai’ from childhood to invoke nationalism getting an equally reverse rhetoric by AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi.

Speaking to Muslim groups in Udgir tehsil, Latur district of Maharashtra, Owaisi said: “I don’t chant that slogan. What are you going to do, Bhagwat sahab?” He further said,”I won’t utter that even if you put a knife to my throat… Nowhere in the Constitution it says that one should say: Bharat Mata ki Jai.”

Earlier RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat told a meeting of RSS members, “Now the time has come when we have to tell the new generation to chant ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’… It should be real, spontaneous and part of all-round development of the youth.”

RSS has been playing pivotal role in BJP rule and it believes that the time has come for a Hindu ruler to ascend the throne after 900 years and it should not be wasted without instilling the spirit of nationalism in India. Prthviraj Chouhan was the last acknowledged Indian ruler by the Sanghis, while Atal Behari Vajpayee’s 5-year-rule remains a failure for them in terms of implementing the Hindu agenda.