February 29, 2008

The members of Pakistan Humanitarian Forum (PHF) condemn the deplorable firing and bomb attack on the Plan International staff and office in Mansehra (NWFP), conducted by unidentified armed men.

The 21 out of 22 international organizations express deep concern regarding Monday's [Feb. 25] senseless attack, which has claimed the lives of three staff members and one community volunteer, injuring nine others.

Pakistan Humanitarian Forum extends its condolences to the families who lost family members in this tragic act.

Our hearts go out to the bereaved families and Plan International office in Pakistan. The loss of some very dedicated staff is compounded by the fact that this outrageous event has disrupted the work of international NGOs with a deep commitment for poor and vulnerable Pakistani children and their families.

It is regrettable that this attack might also create an environment in which humanitarian activities and interventions are hampered.

The Pakistan Humanitarian Forum calls for immediate investigation into the matter, and justice to the affected families. PHF is determined to continue working for the Pakistani people and communities, and hopes for an improvement of the security situation in Pakistan. At the same time, authorities at all levels must take effective measures to ensure protection of aid workers across the country, so that we can deliver unhindered assistance to those who most need it.

Pakistan Humanitarian Forum is a network of 22 international humanitarian organizations, which was formed to coordinate and strengthen the efforts of International NGOs working in disaster management. The forum collectively represents INGOs to the Government of Pakistan and other stakeholders.

Media Contact: Lesley Crosson, CWS/New York, 212-870-2676; lcrosson@churchworldservice.org Jan Dragin, 781-925-1526; jdragin@gis.net