Access to the most vulnerable conflict victims remains vital

In response to questions about the ICRC’s role in the Sri Lanka conflict, the president pointed out that from February until May the ICRC had been the only humanitarian organization operating in the area worst affected by the fighting, under very dangerous conditions, with three ICRC staff killed. The ICRC had evacuated 14,000 sick and wounded (plus their relatives) by ship.

Mr Kellenberger explained that the ICRC had spoken to both sides regarding compliance with international humanitarian law. “In accordance with our normal procedures, we will be discussing the associated issues in confidence with the authorities concerned,” he announced. Read more ...