On 12 January, Haiti was struck by a devastating earthquake that killed and wounded tens of thousands of people, including many colleagues working for the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti's (MINUSTAH) and other UN agencies. At least 150 UN staff were inside the Organization's Headquarters at the Christopher Hotel in Port au Prince when the building collapsed.
The UN has confirmed 36 fatalities, including 13 civilians, four police officers and 19 military personnel. These figures are undoubtedly subject to change in the coming days. Upon the request of the Secretary-General, all UN duty stations lowered their UN flags to half-staff out of respect for those who have lost their lives. The flags will remain lowered for two full days.
ESCWA staff council expressed solidarity with the people of Haiti and their surviving UN personnel. The Commission's staff mourned fellow colleagues killed in the Caribbean island nation in a condolence letter disseminated to all UN staff serving in Lebanon. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the natural calamity in Haiti, their families and our dear colleagues. Every minute counts at this early stage. No effort should be spared at this moment," the council said. ESCWA will be holding a fundraising event for the families of Haiti's victims.
