Targeting Children Not Justifiable under Any Circumstances, Says

Secretary-General Regarding Schoolgirls Abducted in Nigeria

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the fate of schoolgirls recently abducted in Borno State, Nigeria.  He shares the anguish of the families of the girls and the people of Nigeria at this traumatic time.

The Secretary-General reiterates that the targeting of children and schools is against international law and cannot be justified under any circumstances.

The Secretary-General is following the situation closely, and pledges the continued commitment of the United Nations in supporting Nigeria’s efforts to tackle internal challenges.  The Secretary-General reminds all concerned that human rights law and international humanitarian law must be fully respected.

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For information media • not an official record