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Joint Local Statement by Heads of Mission of the European Union, its Members States and Norway on attacks against medical facilities

24.07.2019
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We the Heads of Missions of the European Union, its Member States based in Kabul and Norway are very concerned by attacks on health facilities in Afghanistan, particularly most recently in Wardak province. We are also concerned by the subsequent closure by the Taliban of 42 health clinics affecting more than 5000 patients daily. 

Although the clinics have now re-opened, these developments affect the civilian population, leaving them without much needed medical care and treatment. 

International humanitarian law is clear - attacks against medical care in situations of armed conflict are prohibited. Medical personnel, transports and facilities exclusively assigned to medical duties must be respected and protected in all circumstances. 

The increased level of combat related violence that affects civilians reported by the UN and attacks against healthcare facilities and aid workers are a cause for great concern. All involved parties must comply with their obligations under International Humanitarian Law.

The EU, its Member States and Norway, as staunch defenders of international legal norms and principled humanitarian assistance, remain fully committed to the continued implementation of UN Security Council resolution 2286 on medical workers. 

Category
Joint Statements
Location

Bruxelles

Editorial sections
Afghanistan