The UNICEF Blog focuses on promoting children's rights and well-being, offering insights from child rights experts and UNICEF staff across over 190 countries and territories. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect UNICEF's official stance.

International students in Winnipeg face significant challenges adjusting to life in Canada, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Students like Muhommad Arqam Naveed from Pakistan and Yashas Samtani and Ish Khattar from India struggle with loneliness, homesickness, financial constraints, and navigating local systems. Despite these difficulties, they find solace in cultural and religious practices, student politics, and friendships. The high cost of education for international students is a vital revenue source for Canadian universities, but the pandemic has disrupted this dynamic, potentially impacting university finances.

Babies born during the COVID-19 pandemic are falling behind on their recommended immunization schedules, with a notable drop in vaccination rates for the Meningococcal C Conjugate (Men-C-C) vaccine. Dr. Bunmi Fatoye from the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority highlights the importance of maintaining high coverage rates to prevent infections and protect vulnerable populations. The decline in immunization rates is attributed to disruptions in healthcare services during the pandemic. The article emphasizes the need for increased awareness and conversations with healthcare providers about the importance of vaccines.

CBC Manitoba is establishing a 15-member community advisory board to add context and perspective to its coverage, reflecting the province's diverse communities. The board, which will not have editorial control, aims to deepen the public broadcaster's connection with Manitobans. Members will serve two-year terms, meet bi-monthly, and receive an honorarium. The initiative follows similar models by global newsrooms like BBC and NPR. CBC Manitoba invites public applications for the board, seeking to represent the province's diversity.

Felicita Ovadje, a Nigerian-born lawyer and entrepreneur, and Delia Joseph, a professional life coach, discuss the challenges and opportunities for Black female entrepreneurs in Winnipeg. They emphasize the need for exposure, access to mentorship, and representation to inspire future generations. Ovadje's business, Felicheeta Artistry, aims to empower the Black community by providing cosmetics for diverse skin tones. Both women highlight the importance of internal and external support systems, including community mentorship and media exposure, to foster entrepreneurial success among Black women.

Manitoba, with the largest Indigenous population per capita in Canada, presents significant economic opportunities. Indigenous-owned businesses are growing rapidly, yet Indigenous people remain underrepresented as business owners. In a conversation between two Indigenous female entrepreneurs, Brandi Woodhouse and Eva Wilson-Fontaine, they discuss the challenges and opportunities for Indigenous women in business. Woodhouse, who started RezGal Lashes during the pandemic, aims to empower young Indigenous girls. Wilson-Fontaine, co-founder of several businesses, emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness and support among Indigenous women. Both highlight the need for visibility and support for Indigenous women in business to inspire future generations.

Susan Thompson, former mayor of Winnipeg and previous owner of Birt Saddlery, and Miriam Delos Santos, owner of Hello Darling Co., share their experiences as female entrepreneurs. Thompson recounts how a surge in cowboy boot sales, spurred by John Travolta's film 'Urban Cowboy,' saved her family business during an economic downturn. Delos Santos, daughter of immigrant parents and a young entrepreneur, discusses the importance of networking and community support for women in business. Both emphasize the value of perseverance, especially during the pandemic, and celebrate their achievements, including Delos Santos' feature in Vanity Fair.

The article critically examines the effectiveness of sanctions, particularly those imposed by the West on Russia. It highlights the economic impact of sanctions on Russia but argues that their political impact has been minimal. The article discusses the resilience and adaptability of targeted countries like Russia, which have diversified their economies and endured the fallout. It also points out that sanctions often serve as a tool for signaling unity and moral outrage rather than achieving strategic goals. The article concludes that while sanctions have a role, they cannot replace diplomacy and strategy in dealing with international crises.

The article examines the effectiveness of sanctions, particularly those imposed by the United States and the European Union on Russia. It highlights the limited political impact of sanctions despite their economic consequences, citing examples like the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the poisoning of Alexei Navalny. The piece argues that while sanctions can signal moral outrage and unity, they are not a substitute for comprehensive diplomatic strategies. It also discusses how targeted countries like Russia adapt to mitigate the effects of sanctions, questioning their long-term efficacy.

Miriam Delos Santos, a Winnipeg entrepreneur, uses her Instagram platform to support local BIPOC artists and makers. This initiative aligns with broader movements like Aurora James' 15 Per Cent Pledge, which advocates for better representation of BIPOC brands in Canadian retail. CBC Manitoba is launching the 'Begin Anywhere' series, featuring live-streamed craft tutorials by local BIPOC makers. The series aims to educate and inspire, while also addressing cultural appropriation in Indigenous art. Key figures include Catriona Dooley of Monias Beads and Dionne Friesen of Poppy Joy Pompoms, who share their expertise and personal stories.

The article discusses the challenges facing Vladimir Putin's regime in Russia, highlighting the need for economic and political reforms to ensure future stability. It points to increasing civil unrest, elite infighting, and a stagnating economy exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic as significant issues. The article argues that to future-proof its economy, Russia must embrace innovation, diversification, and a fundamental restructuring of its resistant system.

Volodymyr Zelenskiy, after a year in office, continues to face significant challenges in resolving the Donbas conflict. Despite efforts such as prisoner exchanges and the Steinmeier Formula, progress has been hindered by domestic political opposition and Moscow's intransigence. The COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated the situation, impacting diplomatic efforts and worsening conditions in the occupied Donbas. The conflict remains unresolved, with no clear path to a lasting political solution.

The Kremlin's fear of free and fair local elections is driven by the potential for opposition activism leading up to the 2021 parliamentary and 2024 presidential elections. Despite the invalidation of opposition signatures and significant police violence, large protests have erupted in Moscow, highlighting the regime's coercive power. The protests, part of a broader rise in civic action across Russia, reflect growing public frustration over issues like pension reform and internet freedoms. The lack of a long-term political strategy among activists raises questions about the future of the protest movement.

CBC Manitoba, in collaboration with Chocolatier Constance Popp, introduced unique creamsicle flavors at the Winnipeg Folk Festival to engage the community and reflect its diversity. The event, held near the food village, featured flavors like pomegranate, anise, rose water, sage, and ube. The initiative aimed to thank festival attendees and promote CBC Manitoba's community presence. The #FolkTip campaign, led by Lynne Skromeda, provided festival-goers with essential tips on sustainability and safety.

CBC Manitoba is sponsoring the Winnipeg Pride Festival and encourages participation in the Pride Parade, highlighting the importance of self-expression and support for the LGBTQ community. The article offers five ways to celebrate individuality, including being true to oneself, finding and expressing one's passions, dressing expressively, speaking one's mind, and embracing love. It features stories from individuals like Janelle Campagne and Peetanacoot Nenakawekapo, advice from drag performer Satina Loren, and mentions Kelly O'Leary-Woodford's creative hair art and Jay Heinrichs's book on rhetoric.

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the sovereign internet bill into law, set to be effective from November 1, amidst concerns and criticisms. The law aims to give the government more control over the internet, potentially isolating Russia's internet in crisis situations. It is seen as an escalation in censorship, with previous online freedoms being curtailed through various laws. The law's technical feasibility and political implications are questioned, as it may face resistance from both the Russian populace and international tech companies. The majority of Russians oppose the law, and it may incite the protests it seeks to suppress.

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the controversial sovereign internet bill into law, aiming to give the government more control over the internet and isolate Russia's internet in times of crisis. The law has faced criticism for its potential to escalate censorship and stifle internet freedoms. The bill's implementation challenges include technical, political, and financial hurdles. The law is seen as part of a broader strategy to control internal dissent and maintain political stability, but it may provoke the very protests it seeks to prevent. The article highlights the role of the internet in Russian society and the potential impact on civil liberties and the tech industry.

Winnipeg is celebrated for its unique characteristics and vibrant arts and food scene. CBC Manitoba introduces a fun party game for the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, encouraging participants to create humorous roasts about the city. The festival, running from May 2 to May 7, features CBC's Steve Patterson hosting 'The Debaters' live, blending stand-up, quiz show, and comedy competition elements.

The article argues that the notion of an international liberal order, often idealized in critiques of President Donald Trump's foreign policy, has always been more aspirational than real. It highlights the US's historical contradictions and failures in upholding the norms and values it purported to champion, from the Cold War to the Iraq invasion. The piece criticizes the romanticization of the pre-Trump era and calls for a more honest reflection on America's role in the world, emphasizing that both the past and present US foreign policies have been inadequate in addressing global challenges.

The Buy Social Holiday Market in Winnipeg, organized by LITE Winnipeg, aims to support local artisans and fight poverty by offering employment grants to social enterprises. The market features nearly 40 social enterprises selling various products, including tote bags, honey, and handmade ornaments. Highlighted individuals, Melissa McDonald and Etagengni 'Mimi' AbegaziMimi, shared their positive experiences with LITE's support. The event also includes a 'make and take' workshop sponsored by CBC Manitoba, emphasizing community engagement and sustainability.

Chef Tim Palmer from VG Restaurant in Winnipeg shares his signature turkey stuffing recipe, emphasizing the use of fresh, local ingredients. The recipe includes bacon, butter, onion, celery, fresh herbs, and day-old white bread, all combined and baked to perfection. Chef Palmer discusses the importance of simplicity in cooking and the nostalgic value of traditional recipes. He also advises against cooking stuffing inside the turkey to avoid overcooking the bird.

The article critiques the US sanctions on Russia, particularly focusing on the impact on Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska and his companies, including Rusal. It highlights the unintended consequences on global markets and supply chains, and questions the effectiveness and strategy behind the sanctions. The piece also discusses the broader implications for US-Russia relations and the need for a more coherent and strategic approach to economic sanctions.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government has faced significant protests due to increasing control over media and civil society, and a controversial electoral system. Despite being re-elected, Orban's rule is marked by xenophobia, conspiracy, and undermining democratic institutions. The European Union, while critical of Hungary's direction, has indirectly supported Orban through structural funds, and the European People's Party has shielded him from broader EU criticism. Orban's popularity persists due to perceived economic recovery and protection of national interests, but his actions set a dangerous precedent for EU values and governance.

Vladimir Putin's final term as president of Russia is marked by a legacy of authoritarianism and kleptocracy, despite initial economic improvements. The Russian political system is dominated by a loyal elite, with elections serving more as a ritual than a democratic process. The future of Russia post-Putin is uncertain, with economic challenges and strained relations with the West. The Russian populace desires democracy, rule of law, and accountability, but these remain elusive under the current regime.

CBC Hamilton encourages community participation in the holiday season through a daily activity calendar, offering a chance to win a CBC holiday prize pack. Participants are invited to complete daily activities, share their experiences on social media, and enter a draw for prizes, fostering a festive spirit and community engagement.

CBC London is hosting a holiday activity calendar where participants can win a CBC holiday prize pack. The winner will be drawn on December 27, 2017. Participants need to bookmark the web page, engage with the daily activity, fill in the entry form, and share their experiences on social media with the hashtag #CBCSOTSONT to enter the contest.

CBC Kitchener-Waterloo invites families to engage in daily holiday activities through their holiday activity calendar, offering a chance to win a CBC holiday prize pack. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #CBCSOTSONT.

Chef Nick Graumann from Nick's on Broadway demonstrated how to prepare a beet salad with honey-toasted seeds and peach and poppy seed dressing at the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ's farmers market. The event was part of CBC Cooks Local, a series where chefs teach meal preparation using local ingredients. CBC Manitoba's Nadia Kidwai, host of the Weekend Morning Show, was the lead taste tester.

Fall is approaching in the Prairies, but fresh Manitoba produce is still available in downtown Winnipeg. Chef Quin Cook from Smith Restaurant partnered with CBC Manitoba for a cooking demonstration at the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ's farmers market, showcasing a cured Arctic char recipe with root vegetables. The event, part of CBC Cooks Local, featured live and streamed demonstrations, with limited samples for tasting. The recipe includes ingredients like salt-roasted beets, hummus, and spicy mayonnaise, emphasizing the use of local produce.

Executive Chef Tim Palmer from VG Restaurant at the Fairmont Winnipeg conducted a cooking demonstration at the Downtown Farmers' Market, teaching attendees how to prepare Manitoba Boar Belly Bao Buns using local ingredients. The event is part of a series of demonstrations held every Thursday in August, where downtown chefs create new recipes with Manitoba's harvest. The demonstrations are live-streamed and feature dishes like the boar buns and a farmers market beet salad.

CBC Manitoba collaborates with local downtown restaurants for a series of cooking demonstrations at the Downtown Farmers' Market in Winnipeg. Each Thursday in August, chefs from different restaurants will create new recipes using locally grown ingredients. The events, hosted by CBC Manitoba personalities, will be held live and broadcast online. The initiative aims to promote local food and community engagement.

The article critiques President Trump's approach to international relations, highlighting his disdain for global commitments and unpredictability. It discusses the potential long-term damage to US-European relations and the need for Europe to bolster its military capabilities and uphold democratic values. Despite the challenges, the article suggests that Trump's actions could serve as a wake-up call for Europe to address its own issues and strengthen its unity and defense.

The article provides a list of five engaging and educational day camps available in Winnipeg during spring break, aimed at giving parents a much-needed break. The camps include nature activities at FortWhyte Alive, art development at Winnipeg Art Gallery, a mix of fun and discipline at Canadian Forces Winnipeg March Break Camp, crafts and games at Indigo, and theatre production at MTYP. Each camp is described with its cost, dates, and the unique benefits it offers to children aged 6-12.

Chef Fraser MacLeod of 529 Wellington showcased a roasted squash ratatouille recipe using fresh ingredients from the downtown Winnipeg farmers market. The dish features a variety of vegetables, including zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, layered over a tomato-based sauce. The recipe is part of a series of demonstrations by CBC Manitoba, the Childhood Nutrition Council, and Downtown Winnipeg BIZ, aimed at promoting local ingredients and shop owners.

Chef Wayne Aastrom from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet demonstrated how to make Mediterranean tzatziki and chicken souvlaki using local Manitoba ingredients at the Downtown Farmers' Market. The event, part of CBC Manitoba's Music for Lunch series, aims to highlight local ingredients and vendors. Aastrom's recipes featured products from local businesses such as Dairy Fairy, Graze Meat Co., and Frescolio. Future demonstrations will include a roasted ratatouille recipe by Colin Fraser, with performances by local musicians.

Chef Nick Paquin from Smith Restaurant conducted a live cooking demonstration at the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Farmers' Market, creating a Beet Bruschetta inspired by local Manitoba produce. The recipe featured beets and cucumber with dill, a deviation from traditional bruschetta ingredients. The event also included performances by local singer Renee Lamoureux and CBC Radio One's Trevor Dineen. The Music for Lunch series will continue with a performance by Winnipeg band Naysa and a cooking demonstration by Wayne Aastrom from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet's kitchen.

Summer in Manitoba offers a variety of family-friendly festivals, from the Manitoba Highland Gathering celebrating Scottish heritage to the vibrant Soca Reggae Festival. The Manitoba Stampede and Exhibition features top rodeo events, while the Interstellar Rodeo showcases contemporary roots music. The Morden Corn and Apple Festival provides a relaxing end-of-summer celebration. Each event offers unique attractions, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.