Morning Brief – 21st of Oct

The main developments include humanitarian emergencies, public health concerns, severe weather, international policy and regional infrastructure.

Top Stories

1. Migrant Boat Capsizes Off Coast of Djibouti, Leaving at Least 139 Dead – At least 139 people, including 15 children, died when a migrant boat carrying more than 300 people capsized off Djibouti, with several passengers still missing.
2. UN Aid Agency Warns Millions Face Deepening Hunger Crisis in Afghanistan – Nearly 16 million people in Afghanistan face crisis-level hunger, including about 3.4 million living in emergency conditions.
3. Escalating Conflict and Fuel Shortages Threaten Water Access for 1.6 Million Children in Taiz, UNICEF Warns – Fighting and fuel shortages in Yemen’s Taiz are threatening water systems serving about 3 million people, including 1.6 million children.
4. IRC Expands Ebola Response in Kenya Following New Cases – The International Rescue Committee is expanding its Ebola response in Kenya after seven additional cases were confirmed.
5. Met Office Names Storm Austen Ahead of Expected Wind and Rain Disruption – The UK Met Office has named Storm Austen and warned that strong winds and heavy rain will disrupt parts of the United Kingdom.
6. UN Security Council Unanimously Adopts Resolution on Digital Technologies and Children in Armed Conflict – The UN Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution addressing the impact of digital technologies on children affected by armed conflict.
7. FDA Releases Final Guidance on Prescription Drug Companion Apps and Software – The US Food and Drug Administration issued final guidance on developing, distributing and labeling apps and software used with prescription medicines.
8. NSW Government Unveils 20-Year Transport Blueprint for Riverina Murray – New South Wales has released a regional transport plan with 52 initiatives focused on roads, public transit and freight networks in Riverina Murray.
9. FSANZ Calls for Public Feedback on Genetically Modified Wheat Application – Food Standards Australia New Zealand is seeking public feedback on an application involving food made from genetically modified wheat.
10. Man Charged After MP Helen Haines Struck by Vehicle in Wangaratta – Victoria Police charged a 43-year-old man after a vehicle allegedly struck MP Helen Haines in Wangaratta.