Geneva/Kinshasa (ICRC) - The
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is deeply shocked by
the deaths of two volunteers from the Red Cross Society of the Democratic
Republic of the Congo. The two Red Cross workers died on 11 May while carrying
out humanitarian duties during fighting in Bunia, in the north-east of
the country. Both were wearing tabards that clearly identified them as
Red Cross personnel. This is the second time that personnel from the Movement
have been killed in this part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo;
in April 2001, six ICRC employees were murdered in the same region.
As guarantor of international humanitarian
law and in accordance with its mandate, the ICRC reminds all parties to
the conflict of their obligation at all times to differentiate between
civilians and those who are participating directly in hostilities, and
between civilian property and military objectives. There is also an obligation
to respect humanitarian workers, together with medical personnel, facilities
and vehicles, especially if they bear the red cross emblem. Persons in
authority within parties to the conflict must maintain discipline among
their troops, to ensure that their behaviour is at all times in conformity
with international humanitarian law.
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement extends its deepest sympathy to the families of the two volunteers killed. They have sacrificed their lives in the cause of solidarity with the victims of conflict in their country. The Movement calls on all concerned to respect the red cross emblem, life and human dignity.
Further information: Antoine Tawamba, ICRC Kinshasa, tel. ++ 243 12 34 19