SATKHIRA, Bangladesh, December 9 (IPS) - A dried karam tree branch stands on the bank of a pond in a field in Datinakhali village adjacent to the Sundarbans. Despite many efforts, the tree could not be saved.

Read the full story, “Climate Crisis Disrupts Sundarbans Community Festival, Prosperity”, on globalissues.org →

UNITED NATIONS, December 9 (IPS) - In late November, Cyclone Ditwah made landfall in Sri Lanka and southern India, bringing heavy rainfall that triggered widespread flooding and devastating landslides. The storm caused extensive damage to civilian infrastructure and resulted in a significant loss of life. Communities have been severely impacted, with limited access to essential services, while humanitarian agencies face challenges in reaching the most vulnerable populations.

Read the full story, “Cyclone Ditwah Leaves Millions Affected as Sri Lanka Faces Widespread Flooding, Displacement, and Rising Health Risks”, on globalissues.org →

From salt made by hand on a Philippine island, to ceremonial dances in Kenya and ancient textile traditions in Belarus, the UN cultural agency has added a diverse range of living traditions to its global lists of culture at risk, highlighting both the richness of expression and the urgent need to safeguard heritage.

Read the full story, “From bagpipes to salt-making, UNESCO honours endangered culture passed down through generations”, on globalissues.org →