UN says it was involved in introducing cholera to Haiti
UN says it was involved in introducing cholera to Haiti
Edith M. Lederer, Associated Press
Updated 11:20 pm, Thursday, August 18, 2016
UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The United Nations is saying for the first time that it was involved in the introduction of cholera to Haiti and needs to do "much more" to end the suffering of those affected, estimated at more than 800,000 people.
Researchers say there is ample evidence that cholera was introduced to Haiti's biggest river in October 2010 by inadequately treated sewage from a U.N. peacekeeping base. The United Nations has never accepted responsibility, and has answered lawsuits on behalf of victims in U.S. courts by claiming diplomatic immunity.
U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq's statement referring to the U.N.'s "own involvement," which was sent to The Associated Press on Thursday, came a step closer to an admission of at least some responsibility and was welcomed by lawyers for the victims.
"This is a major victory for the thousands of Haitians who have been marching for justice, writing to the U.N. and bringing the U.N. to court," said Mario Joseph, a Haitian human rights attorney whose law firm has led a high-profile claim on behalf of 5,000 cholera victims who blame the U.N. for introducing the disease.
More:
http://www.chron.com/news/medical/article/UN-says-it-needs-to-do-much-more-for-Haiti-9170568.php
LBN:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10141554081