United Nations resumes humanitarian operations in the Republic of Chechnya

Moscow, Monday 9 September 2002 - The United Nations agencies today resumed their humanitarian programme in the Republic of Chechnya, suspended since 29 July following the abduction of Ms Nina Davidovich, the representative of a UNICEF implementing partner, Druzhba.
The decision to resume operations followed extensive consultations with the Russian government, the donor community, non-governmental organisations, and civilians in need in the republic. Rising humanitarian need amongst the civlian population in Chechnya is the main reason for re-engaging in the region.

The United Nations remains deeply concerned about the situation in the North Caucasus and the risks undertaken by humanitarian workers underlined by the recent abductions. It re-states its solidarity with Ms Davidovich, and with the head of the Médecins Sans Frontières-Switzerland mission in Dagestan, Mr Arjan Erkel abducted in the Republic of Dagestan on Monday 12 August 2002. The UN condemns these acts, and calls for the immediate release of the two humanitarian workers.

For further information please contact the United Nations' designated public information officer on this issue, Ms Victoria Zotikova, on (095) 956 64 05

United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in the Russian Federation
6 pereulok Obukha, Moscow 105064
Tel: (7095) 956-6405
Fax: (7095) 956-6355