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UNICEF calls for release of aid workers in Somalia

Noting that all 10 are staff members of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Ms. Bellamy asked the Somali factional leaders holding them to recall the great and enduring contributions of the ICRC to all Somali citizens during difficult times.

"The Somali faction leaders must remember the basic principles of African and Somali culture, which encourage respect for human life," Ms. Bellamy said, adding that the kidnappings dramatized the terrible risks faced by humanitarian aid workers everywhere.

Ms. Bellamy, who visited the Badera region of Somalia on 19 April, stressed that humanitarian work is still possible in many areas of Somalia. However, she said that incidents such as this appalling kidnapping of ICRC staff could make it virtually impossible for aid agencies to work in the country.

"I have seen the desperate situation of many Somali women and children -- and I have seen good efforts by Somali people to create a peaceful environment to the benefit of children and women," Ms. Bellamy said. "I continue to believe that peaceful resolution of conflict is possible when there is good will and effort on all sides."

But she stressed that if the international community is to support the Somali people in rebuilding their country, the kidnapping of the ICRC staff must be quickly and peacefully resolved.

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