IOM Director General William Swing leaves Kabul today after an overnight visit to show support to staff and thank the Afghan Government for their actions during and after the recent attack on an IOM compound.

His visit emphasized the message that after 21 continuous years of humanitarian work in Afghanistan, IOM would not be deterred from its mandate by the attack, which resulted in three deaths (one policeman and two civilians in neighbouring houses) and two injured IOM and UN staff.

The DG met with all IOM’s national staff who were present during the attack on 24th May to express his appreciation of their courage in saving the lives of international colleagues.

Swing also paid tribute to the compound guards and Afghanistan National Security Forces, without whom the death toll could have been much worse.

"It was my duty to come here to show solidarity with my staff and the people of Afghanistan. The humanitarian nature of our work is known throughout the country, and as long as there remain needs, we will not close our doors. My message to the Afghan government and people is that IOM will remain with you," he added.

Ambassador Swing also met with Jan Kubis, the UN Secretary General's Special Representative for Afghanistan.

For more information please contact Richard Danziger, IOM Kabul, Email: rdanziger@iom.int