UN deplores 'abhorrent' attack on international journalists in Afghanistan
| Publisher | UN News Service |
| Publication Date | 4 April 2014 |
| Cite as | UN News Service, UN deplores 'abhorrent' attack on international journalists in Afghanistan, 4 April 2014, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5343bded4.html [accessed 28 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) strongly condemned the "abhorrent" attack on two international journalists working for the Associated Press today which left one dead and the other wounded.
Photographer Anja Niedringhaus and reporter Kathy Gannon were shot in the Tani district of Khost province in eastern Afghanistan, according to a news release issued by UNAMA. Ms. Niedringhaus died in the attack, while Ms. Gannon is reported to be in stable condition.
The two women were covering the country's presidential and provincial council elections, which are set to take place on 5 April.
"I am outraged by this terror attack on civilians," said the Secretary-General's Special Representative and head of UNAMA, Ján Kubiš. "The journalists were going about their work, informing the world how Afghan citizens are exercising their right to shape a better future for themselves, their children and their country."
He added that the attack is a "huge loss" for Afghanistan. "Both journalists were highly respected and were very well known for their professionalism, love and appreciation of the Afghan people and dedication to telling Afghanistan's story."
UNAMA expressed its condolences to the family and colleagues of Ms. Niedringhaus and wished a speedy recovery for Ms. Gannon.
