UNMIK/PR/75

Press Release

20 October 1999

SRSG Kouchner Visits Kosovo Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims

Pristina - Bernard Kouchner, Special Representative of the Secretary- General, visited the newly opened Kosovo Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims (KRCT) today and commended the doctors for their work in helping Kosovars overcome the psychological trauma of the war.

"So many people lived in refugee camps and then coming back they were faced with the damage caused by the bombings and the destruction of their homes," Kouchner said after he met with the Centre’s staff. "That is why this work is so important."

The KRCT is providing medical and psychosocial support, treatment and rehabilitation services to the local population. Victims of torture and trauma can receive counseling at the center.

During the first nine months of operation, the center plans to train approximately 150 doctors, nurses and teachers to identify and treat post traumatic stress syndrome and other effects of torture and trauma. Satellite centers will be set up in Podujeva, Skenderaj, Rahovec, Malishevė, Suharekė and Peja.

"The work of this team is not easy. They must continue treatment for months, because people suffered not only physical abuse, but psychological trauma," Kouchner said. "UNMIK supports their efforts on behalf of public health. A lot of people have been psychologically damaged by the conflict."

The International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims is an independent, non-political, international NGO. Health professionals around the world staff nearly 200 rehabilitation centres and programs to promote and establish effective treatment for torture and trauma victims.