HIAS Responds to Increased Violence in South Sudan, Stands Ready to Assist New Refugees

In response to the reports of increased violence in South Sudan resulting in the deaths of hundreds of civilians, HIAS president and CEO Mark Hetfield issued the following statement:

"The extraordinary levels of inter-ethnic mass killings being reported out of South Sudan is a worrisome indication of where the violence that started late last year is heading. Footage showing horrifying acts including the ruthless massacre of human lives is an unthinkable scenario, but one with which we are tragically acquainted.

At HIAS, we are all too familiar with the brutality that precedes genocide and are concerned for the safety of South Sudanese citizens as well as the likely multitudes of people fleeing Sudan. HIAS Kenya is monitoring the situation carefully and preparing diligently for any outflows of refugees to Kenya that will require assistance and protection. HIAS Kenya stands ready to work with the U.S. State Department and UNHCR to meet the needs of new refugees."