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International NGO Statement of Concern on Somalia

November 5, 2007

One of our most resilient children’s villages, in an unstable region, is back in the press. SOS Children’s Villages has been in the volatile region of Somalia since the 1980’s, including the time of civil war in 1991. SOS Children’s Villages stayed and provided services and protection to not only orphaned children, but the wounded, and in a time when other aid organizations felt forced to leave. SOS Children’s Villages is more than just an organization of villages, it is an aid organization, responding to community needs and natural disasters around the world.

Along with 40 other international and national NGOs, SOS Children’s Villages has signed a Statement of Concern surrounding their ability to serve those in need of humanitarian aid in Somalia. The Statement of Concern reads:

“There is an unfolding humanitarian catastrophe in South Central Somalia. Tens of thousands of people are currently fleeing violence in Mogadishu adding to the up to 335,000 people already needing immediate lifesaving assistance in Mogadishu and the Shabelle regions.”

“International and National NGOs cannot respond effectively to the crisis because access and security are deteriorating dramatically at a time when needs are increasing.”

“The international community and all parties to the present conflict have a responsibility to protect civilians, to allow the delivery of aid and to respect humanitarian space and the safety of humanitarian workers.”

Other organizations joining our concern can be found here.

Topics: Childrens Village news, Africa |