High Commissioner urges protection of civilians in Mogadishu

Geneva, 3 April 2007 -- United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour is deeply concerned over the high number of civilian deaths and injuries caused by recent hostilities in Mogadishu, Somalia, her spokesman told reporters this morning. The casualties are reportedly the result of indiscriminate attacks and aerial bombardments in populated areas.

The High Commissioner also condemns the repeated cases of desecration of bodies witnessed in recent days, the spokesman said. As a tense calm prevails over the city, there is a worry that civilians will again bear the brunt of fighting if the ceasefire in place since Sunday does not hold. The High Commissioner urges the parties to respect international humanitarian law and reminds them of their duty to protect the human rights of civilians at all times. This includes granting civilians safe passage and allowing humanitarian aid to reach those who have been affected.

The High Commissioner also condemns the repeated cases of desecration of bodies witnessed in recent days, the spokesman continued. As a tense calm prevails over the city, there is a worry that civilians will again bear the brunt of fighting if the ceasefire in place since Sunday does not hold. The High Commissioner urges the parties to respect international humanitarian law and reminds them of their duty to protect the human rights of civilians at all times. This includes granting civilians safe passage and allowing humanitarian aid to reach those who have been affected.