Desertification occurs when previously fertile land becomes desert through deforestation, drought, or improper agriculture. These areas are often home to some of the most vulnerable people and ecosystems. Many expert reports have also highlighted the link between the current pandemic and ecological damage. Desertification, along with the pandemic, is a double whammy on the poorest of the poor in the world, which sets us decades back in achieving our Sustainable Development Goals.

Remittance flows have increased five-fold over the past twenty years, but COVID-19 has been a formidable test for global remittances. Remittances act as a lifeline for low-income and fragile states where dependents back home rely on remittances to meet their basic needs. It is important that the role of remittances is recognized in people’s well-being, especially during this pandemic, as they enable many families to achieve their own ‘SDGs.’

June 15 is marked as World Elder Abuse Awareness. The UN General Assembly officially recognized this day and the same in its resolution 66/127 in December 2011. This day brings forth the need to voice opposition against the abuse and suffering inflicted upon the older generation.

A single blood donation by a healthy person can save more than one life and provides access to safe blood and blood products to people in dire need. June 14 is celebrated as World Blood Donor Day all across the globe. This day raises awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products and to thank all the voluntary and unpaid blood donors for their life-saving gift.

Children are indeed the most valuable resource, and all nations must focus on the overall growth and development of children. However, one out of ten children worldwide is engaged in child labor, which poses a threat to the nation at large and the economy and has a long-lasting impact on the physical and mental health of the child.

Education and advocacy to achieve sustainable, balanced, and environmentally friendly development is one of the focal goals and activities of the Roya Institute for Global Justice. For this reason, we cherish global occasions and local initiatives in this regard. World Oceans Day is one of these momentous occasions.