UN human rights chief urges US to review migration policy for 2026 World Cup
via SeneNews2 min read
The UN human rights chief, Volker Türk, has called on the United States to conduct a "profound" review of its migration policy enforcement, particularly in light of the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Speaking at a press conference in Geneva, Türk expressed hope for a re-evaluation of policies that impact human rights and dignity, especially those currently prevailing in the US. Tensions surrounding US migration policy have escalated just days before the World Cup begins. The FIFA stated in a communiqué to AFP that it "does not intervene in the immigration procedures of the host country, including visa issuance." A notable incident involved Somali referee Omar Artan, who was turned away by US border police upon arrival in Miami. Artan, who was subsequently removed by FIFA, told the New York Times that his "life's biggest dream" was shattered. Somalia, whose citizens are subject to a travel ban by the Donald Trump administration, defended Artan's integrity, stating he had a valid visa. The US State Department, when questioned by AFP, responded that the referee was "linked to individuals suspected of belonging to terrorist organizations." Other countries have also faced administrative issues. According to The Guardian, Iraqi star striker Aymen Hussein was held for nearly seven hours at Chicago airport, and the team's official photographer, Talal Salah, was denied entry despite a valid visa. Swiss striker Breel Embolo, initially denied administrative authorization due to a judicial con
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Singer Patrick Bruel, 67, has been charged with rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment concerning nine alleged victims. The Nanterre public prosecutor's office confirmed these charges on Wednesday. The reported incidents occurred between 2010 and 2019. Additionally, 13 other cases, which are now time-barred, have been added to the judicial inquiry initiated by the Nanterre prosecutor's office. The accusations against Bruel include a sexual assault in Grenoble in 2000, attempted rapes in Brussels and Neuilly-sur-Seine in 2010, rapes in Dinard in 2012, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue in 2015, and Paris in 2019. He is also accused of sexual assault and sexual harassment in Perpignan in 2019, and sexual harassment in Ajaccio, France, and Nyon, Switzerland, both in 2019. Some of these previously dismissed cases were re-examined and subsequently included in the investigative judges' referral, according to the Nanterre prosecutor's office. Four victims who filed civil complaints are also mentioned in the introductory indictment.
Must ReadSenegal's energy sector continued its growth in May 2026, with oil production from the Sangomar field and gas production from the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim GTA project. Sangomar saw the loading and commercialization of three crude oil cargoes, totaling 2.93 million barrels. This consistent output is supported by high equipment availability and managed operations, ensuring a steady supply to international markets. The GTA gas project also progressed, exporting four cargoes of liquefied natural gas LNG in May 2026, amounting to 0.66 million cubic meters. These results indicate the project's gradual ramp-up and the stability of its liquefaction and export facilities. The observed shipping rate highlights the project's ability to maintain regular production and optimize operations, reflecting strong coordination between Senegal and Mauritania's developed infrastructure. With nearly three million barrels of oil exported from Sangomar and four LNG cargoes shipped from GTA in a single month, Senegal is solidifying its hydrocarbon production, enhancing the energy sector's role in the national economy and supporting growth prospects from the country's oil and gas resources.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, chairman of the African Union Commission, has issued a message of encouragement to the ten African national teams qualified for the 2026 World Cup. He highlighted the unprecedented level of African representation in the finals, viewing it as a testament to the continuous progress of African football and the talent, resilience, and determination of the continent's players. Youssouf emphasized that this record participation is a source of pride for the entire continent. He also noted the universal reach of the World Cup as an event that brings people together through sport, creating a space where nations unite around a shared passion for football. The chairman underscored the central role of youth in African football's performance, stating that the participating teams represent not only their respective countries but also the aspirations of millions of young Africans. The African Union also paid tribute to the players, coaches, sports officials, and supporters who contributed to the teams' qualification. The organization encouraged the teams to compete with discipline, integrity, and respect for fair play values, expressing hope that their performances will further strengthen Africa's position on the global football stage.