Stop Killing Aid Workers

04/25/2014

One aid worker and two civilians killed in Afghanistan

Our thoughts and condolences go to their family, their colleagues and friends as well as to all health workers.

Once again, ACBAR wants to reiterate its strong condemnation of any attack, intimidation, violence or threats against aid workers in Afghanistan.

ACBAR would like to restate that humanitarian organizations are working impartially and independently to deliver much needed aid to the Afghan people who need it the most, irrespective of ethnic identity, religious or political beliefs.

In the current context, where Afghanistan still faces major challenges such as high vulnerability to natural disasters, one of the worst levels of poverty in the world, an increase in crime and an intensification of a conflict that has been ongoing for more than 30 years, NGOs – both local and international – play, and will continue to play, a critical role in providing relief and development aid to people in need, in all 34 provinces of Afghanistan, often in areas where other service providers have limited or no access.

Any attack, intimidation, violence or threat against aid workers, interests, beneficiaries or assets will ultimately result in delays in aid implementation, which negatively impacts the welfare of the people of Afghanistan – particularly the most vulnerable and marginalized groups.

ACBAR is the Agency Coordinating Body for Afghan Relief & Development.