On August 4 2006, two years ago, 17 ACF aid workers were brutally executed on their base, in Muttur, Sri Lanka. They were assassinated in the office of an NGO, a place considered as far as somewhere to be protected. 17 of our colleagues, 17 friends, brothers and sisters. 13 men and 4 women. A father and his daughter, a mother and 5 fathers. 11 of them were under 30. 17 human beings who lost their lives trying to save others.

Such massacre represents the most heinous crime ever committed against a non-governmental organization. The 4th of August 2006 is a dishonor for every aid worker.

Through this crime, it is the very ability of NGOs to accomplish their duty towards the most at-risk that is reconsidered. And above this, it is the living conditions of people counting on the help of NGOs that have been deteriorated even more.

The news remind us every day that humanitarian principles, our duty, our staff's lives, are more and more threatened and in a total impunity.

For these 13 men and 4 women, but also for all the other victims and the defense of the principles that guide us, we have to keep fighting to obtain justice for Muttur.

To see the slidehow of August 4 2008 ceremony in Paris HQ please click here