Brussels, 30/11/2011 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has strongly condemned the recent expulsion of 16 humanitarian aid agencies working in Somalia by the Islamist al Shabaab rebel group. This expulsion has already partly taken place, irrespective of the most vulnerable victims of the drought and famine (still wreaking havoc in three regions).
Outraged by the decision, which is contrary to the principles governing international humanitarian law, Kristalina Georgieva, European Commissioner for International Cooperation, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response, explained that she was extremely concerned by the disastrous effects this was likely to have on the humanitarian crisis in Somalia and in neighbouring countries upon which migatory pressure would undoubtedly make itself felt. She underlined that “what is at stake here, are the lives of Somali women and children who bear the brunt of prolonged conflict and recurrent harsh climatic conditions”. The commissioner is urging al Shabaab to reverse the ban immediately and respect international humanitarian law. She said that they would continue to strive to help and try to find other ways to reach the most vulnerable people.
She also explained that “with limited access to humanitarian aid, thousands of Somalis will inevitably attempt crossing the borders and seek assistance in neighbouring Ethiopia and Kenya. Refugee camps in these two countries have been struggling to cope with the dramatic influx of people witnessed during the peak of the current Horn of Africa crisis. A new wave of refugees will further strain the humanitarian coping capacity in these camps. Recent military activity inside South Central Somalia will make this last-resort journey even more perilous than it was a few months ago.” She added that “The expulsion of our partners has a direct impact on the European Commission's capacity to assist the most vulnerable members of the Somali population.”
Many of the targeted agencies are key implementing partners of the European Commission humanitarian response in Somalia. These agencies were implementing life saving interventions such as ensuring access to basic health services, and providing food and water. In 2010, the European Commission allocated €35 million in humanitarian aid to Somalia, while €77 million have been so far allocated in 2011. AFP has reported that some of these international humanitarian organisations saw their offices forcibly closed on Monday morning. (AN/transl.fl)