Violence Causes Doctors Without Borders To Exit Somalia
The aid group Doctors Without Borders said Wednesday that it's closing all operations in Somalia after 22 years because of the increase in violent attacks and abuse against its staff.
"This is the most difficult announcement that I've had to make as MSF president," Dr. Unni Karunakara said at a press conference from Kenya. "Respect for humanitarian principles no longer exists in Somalia today."
Over the past 22 years, the nonprofit has provided basic and emergency health care to millions in the country through chronic wars and famines.
"Armed groups and civilians are increasingly supporting, tolerating and condoning the killing, assaulting and abuse of humanitarian aid workers," Karunakara said. "We have reached our limits."
Sixteen people working for the group have been killed in the last 22 years. Dozens have been attacked.
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