UN condemns attacks on polio workers in Pakistan

The United Nations has condemned the killing of a polio worker in Peshawar and recent attacks on polio teams in the country.

The UN expressed deepest condolences to the families affected, and said in a statement that it condemns any violence against humanitarian workers, reports the Daily Times.

Safety and security of all front-line humanitarian workers is of paramount importance, including for the hundreds of thousands of polio workers who work tirelessly to reach every child across the country, the statement further said.

Government and all members of society, including religious and community leaders, have an essential role in facilitating access and security so that all Pakistani children can avail of health services including vaccination, the statement said.

Pakistan is one of only three countries globally that has never interrupted the circulation of polio virus.

The statement further said that the UN system in Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to support the people and Government of Pakistan to reach the goal of polio eradication and protect Pakistani children from this preventable disease.