UNITED NATIONS ADMINISTRATIVE COMMITTEE ON COORDINATION PROFOUNDLY DISTURBED BY TRAGEDY IN KOSOVO
Press Release
SG/2053
UNITED NATIONS ADMINISTRATIVE COMMITTEE ON COORDINATION PROFOUNDLY DISTURBED BY TRAGEDY IN KOSOVO
19990409 GENEVA, 9 April (UN Information Service) -- The following statement was issued today by the Administrative Committee on Coordination:The Administrative Committee on Coordination (ACC), meeting in Geneva from 9 to 10 April, is profoundly disturbed by the humanitarian and human rights tragedy unfolding in Kosovo and the surrounding region. We are deeply concerned by the massive displacement of people within Kosovo and deportations beyond its borders. We vigorously protest the brutal treatment of Kosovar civilians, for which there is a substantial and mounting body of evidence. We urge the Yugoslav authorities to respect the safety and integrity of ethnic Albanians remaining in Kosovo and to provide information on their situation.
The ACC expresses appreciation to the countries of the region for offering asylum to those fleeing in very demanding circumstances. We sympathize with difficulties this is causing and urge unqualified respect for all international norms and standards applicable to refugees. The overriding goal should be the prompt and voluntary return of all refugees and displaced persons to their homes in conditions of safety and dignity.
The United Nations system, with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) as the lead humanitarian agency, has been deeply involved in international efforts to alleviate the humanitarian suffering, including visits to the region by members of the ACC in order to gain first-hand knowledge of the situation and to ensure urgent action on the ground. The magnitude of the humanitarian challenge requires the commitment of the entire international community. We are heartened by the support the United Nations humanitarian agencies have received and trust that support will continue until a lasting solution is found. Members of the ACC pledge their commitment to work in a fully coordinated manner to address all aspects of this crisis, in the short and long terms.
The ACC welcomes the statements on Kosovo issued by the Secretary-General on 24 March and earlier today and appeals to all concerned to heed his call.
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