Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean, Via Terracina, 230, Naples (2026)

14/06/2026

As reported by several international media outlets, on 12 June 2026, excerpts of the opera “Mothers of Kherson” premiered in Kyiv, portraying the experiences of Ukrainian families affected by the criminal deportation and forced transfer of their children by Russian occupying forces at the onset of the war of aggression.

Commissioned by the Metropolitan Opera, the production seeks to raise international awareness of the humanitarian consequences of the conflict and will be fully staged in Warsaw later this year before premiering in New York in 2028.

According to the Bring Kids Back initiative, more than 20,000 Ukrainian children are estimated to have been deported or forcibly transferred to Russia or Russian-occupied territories since the start of the conflict.

These crimes are further underscored by the fact that the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in March 2023 for Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova in connection with the well documented war crime of the unlawful deportation and transfer of Ukrainian children from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation.

In this regard, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) echoes the international community in condemning the ongoing Russian war of aggression, as well as all actions resulting in the unlawful deportation, transfer, and separation of children from their families. The Assembly calls for full accountability, the protection of civilians, and strict respect for international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

PAM reiterates that the protection of children affected by armed conflict must remain a priority for the international community. In this context, the Assembly recalls the consensus adoption of the Resolution on Children in Armed Conflict during its 20th Plenary Session, held in Budva, presented by Hon. Klodiana Spahiu (Albania), Vice-President of the PAM Women Parliamentary Forum (WPF) and PAM Rapporteur on Children in Armed Conflict. The resolution reaffirms PAM’s commitment to safeguarding the rights, safety, and dignity of children in conflict situations and to promoting measures aimed at preventing grave violations against children.

In order to put an end to civilian suffering and preserve the rules-based international order, PAM calls for unity, humanitarian solidarity, and swift international action. The Assembly further reiterates its unwavering support for Ukraine, its people, Government and President, as well as for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.

Learn more: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/10/mothers-of-kherson-opera-kyiv-premiere-russian-abductions-children-ukraine

11/06/2026

On 3 June 2026, the United Nations University (UNU), published a study on Artificial Intelligence (AI)’s rapid expansion and the environmental pressures which it produces. As demand for AI technologies continues to increase, concerns are mounting over the energy, water, land, and material resources required to support the infrastructure behind these systems.

The study estimates that data centres powering AI could consume 945 terawatt-hours of electricity annually by 2030, nearly three times the combined annual electricity consumption of Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nigeria. Beyond energy use, AI infrastructure also carries significant environmental costs through water consumption for cooling and electricity production, as well as land use associated with power generation and supply chains.

According to UNU researchers, AI-related water consumption could reach levels equivalent to the basic annual domestic needs of 1.3 billion people by the end of the decade, while its land footprint could exceed 14,500 square kilometres, approximately twice the size of the Jakarta metropolitan area. The report also projects that AI infrastructure could generate up to 2.5 million tonnes of electronic waste annually by 2030, raising concerns about waste management and environmental impacts, particularly in lower-income countries.

The study further highlights that daily use of AI systems accounts for an estimated 80 to 90 per cent of the technology's overall energy demand. At the same time, more than 90 per cent of global AI-specialised computing capacity is concentrated in just two countries, the United States and China, while over 150 countries lack significant domestic AI infrastructure, raising questions regarding equity, access, and environmental justice.

In this context, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM), supported by its Centre for Global Studies (CGS), will continue to promote parliamentary dialogue, research, and policy-oriented initiatives aimed at ensuring that the development and deployment of artificial intelligence remain aligned with the principles of sustainable development and environmental responsibility. Through its work on emerging technologies, digital transformation, and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, PAM-CGS recognizes the importance of addressing the broader societal and environmental implications of AI, including its growing demands on energy, water, and natural resources. PAM and CGS therefore remain committed to supporting governance frameworks that foster innovation while promoting sustainability, resource efficiency, and equitable technological development.

Moreover, PAM, represented by Hon. Abdelouhab Yagoubi (Algeria), PAM Rapporteur on AI, will be present on 11 and 12 June at the meeting of the OECD Parliamentary Group on Artificial Intelligence, where he will raise, on behalf of PAM, the key issues highlighted by the UNU report.

Learn more: https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/06/1167658

05/06/2026

On 5 June 2026, the international community celebrates the World Environment Day, the United Nations' largest global platform for environmental awareness and action, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). This year's observance, hosted by the Republic of Azerbaijan, focuses on climate change and the urgent need to respond to the increasingly visible signals that the planet is sending through rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation.

Under the theme , UNEP calls on governments, institutions, businesses, and citizens to accelerate climate action and help steer the transition towards a more sustainable future.

On this occasion, PAM recalls its longstanding commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action across the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions.

PAM is a full-fledged member of the UN Commission on Sustainable Development in the Mediterranean, and Permanent Observer to the UNFCCC and UNCCD. Over the years, PAM has adopted unanimously several resolutions calling for stronger regional cooperation on climate change, energy transition, environmental governance, and the achievement of climate neutrality objectives. Lastly, during its 20th PAM Plenary Session, PAM has unanimously adopted a Resolution on the current environmental situation in the PAM regions, reaffirming the central importance of addressing the accelerating pace of climate change and its disproportionate impacts on Mediterranean ecosystems.

Environmental sustainability will remain a key priority within PAM's parliamentary diplomacy agenda. The Assembly continues to promote regional dialogue on climate resilience, green transition strategies, renewable energy, and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. These issues will also feature prominently at the forthcoming Fourth Edition of the PAM Economic Forum, to be held in Marrakesh on 19–20 June 2026.

Learn more: https://www.unep.org/events/un-day/world-environment-day-2026

05/06/2026

On 3 June 2026, Máximo Torero Cullen, Chief Economist of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), published an analysis through the Council on Foreign Relations examining the implications of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on global food security. He highlighted how disruptions to maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz are affecting global fertilizer supplies, energy markets, and agricultural production worldwide.

Since the escalation of the conflict in February 2026, tanker traffic through the Strait has fallen by more than 95%, affecting the transport of approximately 30% of globally traded fertilizers, as well as significant volumes of oil and liquefied natural gas. Major fertilizer producers, including Iran, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, have reduced or suspended operations, causing fertilizer prices to surge. Urea prices in the Middle East remain 75% to 108% above pre-conflict levels, while oil prices have risen by more than 30%.

FAO warns that the disruption poses a serious threat to global food security. Rising fertilizer costs are forcing farmers to reduce fertilizer use, switch crops, or absorb unsustainable production costs, with potential consequences for agricultural productivity through 2027 and beyond. According to FAO estimates, cereal producers could face income losses of up to 5% in 2026, contributing to higher food prices, increased food inflation, slower economic growth, and greater food insecurity worldwide.

In this context, PAM recalls its longstanding commitment to addressing the interconnected challenges of food security, sustainable development, and economic resilience across the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions. Through its work on economic cooperation, environmental sustainability, and the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda, PAM has consistently highlighted the importance of resilient agricultural systems, secure supply chains, and regional coordination in response to global shocks.

These issues will continue to be discussed within PAM's parliamentary diplomacy framework, including during the forthcoming Fourth Edition of the PAM Economic Forum, to be held in Marrakesh on 19–20 June 2026, where food security, economic resilience, climate change and the impact of geopolitical crises on global markets will feature prominently among the topics under consideration.

Moreover, PAM will further consolidate its partnership with FAO – which will also be present in Marrakech - through the forthcoming signature of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with the aim of supporting Member States in strengthening food systems, enhancing resilience, and safeguarding vulnerable communities across the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions, also in light of the upcoming Third FAO Global Parliamentary Summit against Hunger and Malnutrition later in the year.

Learn more: https://www.cfr.org/articles/the-clock-is-ticking-fertilizer-food-and-the-fragility-of-global-agriculture

05/06/2026

On 4 June, United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, condemned the killing of Sergeant Milovan Jovanivić, a Serbian peacekeeper serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), after a mortar struck United Nations position 7-2 near Marji’yun, in Sector East of the mission’s area of operations, the day before. The Secretary-General added that two other peacekeepers were wounded in the incident and are receiving treatment at a UNIFIL medical facility in southern Lebanon, while an investigation into the circumstances of the attack remains ongoing.

The Secretary-General expressed his deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the fallen peacekeeper, as well as to the Government and people of the Republic of Serbia, and wished a full and rapid recovery to the injured personnel. He further stressed that seven UNIFIL peacekeepers have been killed since the escalation of hostilities on 2 March 2026, with several others wounded, emphasizing that attacks on peacekeepers must stop. The Secretary-General recalled that such attacks constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law and of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 (2006), and may amount to war crimes. He called on all actors to uphold their obligations under international law, ensure the safety and security of UN personnel, and respect the inviolability of UN property and assets. He also underscored that all attacks against peacekeepers must be promptly investigated and those responsible effectively prosecuted and held accountable.

The UN Secretary-General further urged all actors to respect the cessation of hostilities announced on 16 April 2026 and reaffirmed the commitment of the United Nations to support diplomatic efforts towards its extension and the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701 (2006). He also expressed his deep appreciation to all women and men serving with UNIFIL, underscoring the importance of their safety and security, as well as the mission’s freedom of movement.

In this context, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) strongly echoes the Secretary-General’s condemnation of the attack and reiterates that any attack against United Nations peacekeeping personnel constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law and undermines international efforts aimed at preserving peace, security, and stability in the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions and beyond.

The Assembly calls for a prompt, thorough, and transparent investigation into the incident, urging the competent authorities to identify, prosecute, and hold accountable all those responsible. PAM further stresses the obligation of all parties to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and to fully comply with the provisions of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 (2006).

PAM reaffirms its full support for the mandate and activities of UNIFIL and expresses its appreciation to the troop-contributing countries whose personnel continue to serve under challenging conditions in support of peace and stability in Lebanon and the wider region.

The Assembly extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Sergeant Milovan Jovanivić, as well as to the Government, Parliament, and people of the Republic of Serbia, and wishes a full and speedy recovery to the injured peacekeepers.

Learn more https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/statements/2026-06-04/statement-attributable-the-spokesperson-for-the-secretary-general-the-death-of-peacekeeper-lebanon

04/06/2026

On 2 June 2026, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), issued a warning about the return of El Niño, with a high probability of persisting throughout the coming months. The climate phenomenon, driven by unusually warm waters in the Pacific Ocean, is expected to contribute to above-average temperatures across the world and increase the likelihood of extreme weather events, including heatwaves, heavy rainfall, droughts, and disruptions to agriculture, water resources, energy systems, and supply chains.

The UN has called on governments to strengthen early warning systems and preparedness measures to reduce the risks posed by extreme weather-related disasters. While El Niño is a naturally occurring climate pattern, experts warn that rising global temperatures can intensify its impacts, placing additional pressure on vulnerable communities and ecosystems. Scientific monitoring and timely forecasting remain essential tools for protecting lives, livelihoods, and economies from increasingly severe climate shocks.

In this context, PAM recalls that, during its 20th PAM Plenary Session, it has unanimously adopted a Resolution on the current environmental situation in the PAM regions, reaffirming the central importance of addressing the accelerating pace of climate change and its disproportionate impacts on Mediterranean ecosystems.

PAM, a full-fledged Member of the UN Commission on Sustainable Development in the Mediterranean, and Permanent Observer to the UNFCCC and UNCCD, will continue to advance its contribution to regional environmental governance, which will also be discussed during the forthcoming Fourth Edition of the Economic Forum of Marrakesh on 19-20 June.

Learn more: https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/06/1167620

03/06/2026

➡️H.E. Hon. Mohamed Abou El Enein, PAM President Emeritus and President of PA-UfM, shares his views on the evolution and progress of PAM, on the sidelines of its 20th Plenary Session, held in Montenegro, last May.

02/06/2026

As reported by the United Nations on 31 May, on the sidelines of the 2026 World Urban Forum in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 17-22 May, Mr. Igor Terekhov, Mayor of Kharkiv, jointly with seniir officials of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), highlighted ongoing efforts to prepare Ukraine’s second-largest city for recovery and reconstruction despite the continuing impact of the Russian war of aggression.

Through the UNECE-led UN4UkrainianCities initiative, local authorities, urban planners, architects, and international partners, are developing a new vision for Kharkiv focused on sustainable infrastructure, affordable housing, economic revitalization, and greater urban resilience. The initiative includes the redevelopment of heavily damaged residential districts, the restoration of cultural heritage sites, the creation of green public spaces, and the transformation of industrial areas into hubs for innovation and clean energy. The project also incorporates lessons learned from the conflict, including the integration of dual-use infrastructure that can serve both civilian and emergency purposes, demonstrating how cities can rebuild stronger and more resilient communities, while preparing for future challenges.

In this context, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) reiterates its readiness to support international efforts aimed at Ukraine’s full recovery, reconstruction, and long-term development. Over the years, PAM has consistently promoted sustainable urban development, resilience, and inclusive growth for local communities, particularly in areas affected by conflict and instability. These priorities were further highlighted during the 17th Mediterranean Day, dedicated to “The Cities of the Future”, which underscored the importance of innovation, sustainability, and resilience in shaping the urban environments of tomorrow.

The Assembly once again firmly condemns the ongoing aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine and reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and democratically elected institutions and President. PAM remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote sustainable recovery, resilience, and lasting peace in accordance with international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

Learn more: https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/05/1167611

31/05/2026

On 29 May 2026, the United Nations released the Secretary General's annual report on conflict-related sexual violence, revealing a dramatic increase in documented cases worldwide.

According to the report, 9,788 cases of conflict-related sexual violence were recorded in 2025, more than double the figure of the previous year.

The documented violations included r**e, gang r**e, sexual slavery, forced marriage, trafficking, and abductions committed by both State and non-State actors across 21 conflict-affected countries.

Women and girls remained the primary targets of these crimes, although men and boys were also subjected to sexual violence, particularly in detention settings and as a form of torture.

Victims ranged in age from one to 70 years old, with also recorded cases involving persons with disabilities.

The report identified 77 parties responsible for patterns of conflict-related sexual violence, including 62 non-State armed groups.

According to the report, the United Nations independently verified 310 cases of conflict-related sexual violence in the Russian Federation and Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine, despite restrictions on access for UN investigators. The documented victims included prisoners of war and civilian detainees, the majority of whom were men.

The report urges the UN Security Council and Member States to strengthen prevention, accountability and support for survivors.

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) welcomes the continued efforts of the United Nations to document violations, support survivors, and strengthen accountability for conflict-related sexual violence. The Assembly remains deeply concerned by the growing use of sexual violence as a tactic of war, torture, terrorism, and political repression, and reiterates the need for strengthened international cooperation to prevent such crimes and ensure justice for victims.

In this context, PAM reaffirms its commitment to the protection of civilians affected by armed conflict. Recognizing that children are among the most vulnerable victims of violence during times of war and instability, the Assembly adopted by consensus the Resolution on “Children in Armed Conflict in the PAM Regions”, calling for enhanced measures to prevent grave violations against children, support survivors, and safeguard their rights, dignity, and well-being.

Learn more: https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/05/1167603

29/05/2026

On the night of 28–29 May 2026, as reported by several international media outlets, Russian forces conducted a drone attack against the dry cargo vessel ANT, a ship owned by a Turkish company and sailing, under the flag of Vanuatu, while it was travelling loaded from a port in Odesa Oblast to Türkiye. According to the Ukrainian Navy, the strike caused a fire on the vessel’s superstructure and injured two crew members.

The injured sailors were evacuated by Ukrainian Navy and transported to a hospital for medical treatment. Ukrainian authorities reported that the fire was rapidly contained, preventing further damage to the Turkish vessel. The incident marks another Russian attack affecting commercial maritime navigation in the Black Sea and raises concerns regarding the safety of civilian shipping operating in the region.

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) echoes the condemnation expressed by members of the international community regarding the continued attacks by the Russian Federation. PAM reiterates the importance of respecting international law and safeguarding civilian maritime navigation, stressing that attacks affecting commercial shipping and civilian crews, anywhere in the world, risk further undermining regional stability and international trade.

Learn more: https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2026/05/29/8036863/

Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean

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11/06/2026

05/06/2026

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