Clarification message to the press: WHO has not closed or withdrawn its operations in Balochistan or elsewhere in Pakistan: Dr Michel Thieren, WHO Representative in Pakistan

30 November 2014 – Recently there has been news in the media relating to the supposed closure of business of WHO Pakistan in Balochistan following the recent two attacks on polio workers. WHO would like to categorically dispel the notion that it is closing down or withdrawing its operations in Balochistan, or anywhere else in Pakistan, and would like to firmly clarify what has been decided: 

WHO has applied a standard and routine measure to limit the exposure of its staff and contractors in the current unsettled security situation. This measure is intended to allow time to analyse the event and its aftermath in depth, and explore the working environment, before making the decision to resume normal working procedures. 

WHO would like to take this opportunity to extend its condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims and wishes to reiterate its continued support for polio eradication in Pakistan.