Humanitarian Groups Urge U.S., E.U. and Others To Alleviate Perilous Situation of Refugees in Guinea

Twenty U.S.-based international humanitarian organizations including the International Rescue Committee have expressed concern over the recent violent attacks against refugees along the West African border area separating Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia. They are calling on U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright to work with governments to increase security to allow "unhindered" assistance to refugees.

In a letter to Dr. Albright dated November 27, the humanitarian organizations said the insecurity along Guinea's borders, coupled with antagonism in Guinea toward refugees and the lack of aid funds, has led to a sharp curtailment of humanitarian assistance, threatening the welfare of the nearly 500,000 Sierra Leonean and Liberian refugees. "Swift action will be required to save lives," the letter said.

All the signers are members of InterAction, a coalition of nongovernmental organizations engaged in international humanitarian efforts including relief, development, refugee assistance, environment, population, public policy and global education.

For the full text of the letter, click here.