This Week's Voices: "We cannot abandon the people of South Sudan"

Last July 9, the Republic of South Sudan became the world’s newest nation.

Photo: Peter Biro/IRC

Sir John Holmes on threats to South Sudan that may force aid agencies to switch their programs away from development and back to emergency humanitarian aid  ... plus other notable quotes touching on the IRC's work around the world:
 

"We cannot abandon the people of South Sudan at such a moment of renewed need, whatever our frustrations. They have suffered so long for their prized independence and deserve so much better. But even if the present crisis is mitigated by some kind of agreement after even worse north-south brinkmanship than we are used to, the international community will have to demand much more and better from the government in Juba, as well as pressing Khartoum. The message may be unwelcome. But accepting responsibility is part of independence too."

 “We are providing what is essentially six months of breathing space for many of the neediest families in Badghis. We’re hopeful this will carry them through the spring harvest.” 

“When disasters strike, the IRC is often one of the first to spring into action because they are so often already there with years of on the ground experience. They use a very high percentage of my donations for programs and services, and I like that.” 

"Bahram.

Intelligent, funny.

Watching movies, studying, learning.

He wants to be a doctor and jog.

Five years old."