17 March 2009
UN Expert Calls for Protection for Displaced People Worldwide at Human Rights Council Session
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13 March 2009: Speaking at the tenth session of the Human Rights Council, which is taking place in Geneva, Switzerland, from 2-27 March 2009, Water Kalin, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on the human rights of internally displaced persons (IDPs), stated that over 26 million people are estimated to have been displaced by natural disasters […]

Internally displaced persons in Somalia
13 March 2009: Speaking at the tenth session of the Human Rights Council, which is taking place in Geneva, Switzerland, from 2-27 March 2009, Water Kalin, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on the human rights of internally displaced persons (IDPs), stated that over 26 million people are estimated to have been displaced by natural disasters and conflicts worldwide.

Kalin noted that the figures are particularly high in Somalia, with over 1.3 million, Sudan, with five million, and Sri Lanka. He appealed to governments to make an effort to protect disaster-affected populations, including the displaced, and to enhance efforts towards preparedness against natural disasters. Kalin noted that climate change is also a driving displacement force, which will increase the frequency of natural disasters occurrence. [UN Press Release]