The UN human rights body has said targeted measures are needed to address the disproportionate risks faced by persons with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Friday said she was alarmed by restrictive measures imposed by several States against the independent media, as well as the arrest and intimidation of journalists, saying the free flow information was vital in fighting COVID-19.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Friday said it is essential that governments introducing measures to impede the spread of the coronavirus, COVID-19, undertake a range of additional  actions to reduce the potentially negative impact such measures may have on people’s lives.   

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md. Shahriar Alam on Tuesday said the international community, including the UN agencies, must work meaningfully and vigorously and engage with the government of Myanmar to create an environment that would be conducive to voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return of Rohingyas.