New York, 13 November 2007 – The UN Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, Ms. Radhika Coomaraswamy is deeply concerned about the recent developments in Chad involving the association “l’Arche de Zoé”. She strongly condemns any attempt to take children from their communities in violation of international norms and procedures.
Justice requires a thorough investigation of the case and wrong doers must be held accountable.
The International Community expects humanitarian workers to uphold the highest ethical standards in their work as they are entrusted with the task of protecting the most vulnerable, especially children.
Such illegal incidents will detract from the important work carried out by humanitarian organizations around the globe, which follow procedures in line with national and international laws.
No efforts should be spared to ensure that the children get the best care and are reunited with their communities and care-givers as soon as possible.
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For further information, please contact:
Laurence Gerard, Liaison Officer, Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary General for Children and Armed Conflict, United Nations, New York. Phone: +1 212 963 0984. E-mail: gerardl@un.org
