United Nations suspend north Caucasus aid operations
Moscow, 29 July 2002. In light of
the kidnapping in the Republic of Chechnya of Ms Nina Davidovich, a Russian
aid worker heading a non-governmental organisation, Druzhba, the United
Nations agencies have decided to suspend their humanitarian programmes
in the North Caucasus. The suspension is valid for two days in the Republic
of Ingushetia, where Druzhba is based, and is indefinite in the Republic
of Chechnya, where the kidnapping took place.
Druzhba, a local organization, is working
as an implementing partner of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
carrying educational and psychosocial programmes for children affected
by the consequences of the situation in Chechnya.
For further information please contact the United Nations' designated public information officer on this issue, Ms Victoria Zotikova, on (095) 956 63 55