UN COMMITTEE ON STAFF SECURITY OUTRAGED BY ATTACK IN BAGHDAD, CALLS FOR WITHDRAWAL OF STAFF

UN COMMITTEE ON STAFF SECURITY OUTRAGED BY ATTACK IN BAGHDAD,

CALLS FOR WITHDRAWAL OF STAFF

NEW YORK, 19 August -- The United Nations Staff Council’s Standing Committee on the Security and Independence of the International Civil Service is outraged by today’s attack on the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad, which killed the top United Nations envoy in Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello, and at least 14 other staff members.

The Committee demands a full investigation to determine why adequate security was not in place to prevent such a horrifying act.  The Committee calls on the Secretary-General to suspend all operations in Iraq and withdraw its staff until such time as measures are taken to improve security.

This blatant attack once again serves as a tragic reminder of the innumerable risks undertaken daily by United Nations staff across the globe.  The Committee, on behalf of all its members, extends its heartfelt sympathy to the families and colleagues of the victims.

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