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Peace Corps Temporarily Suspends Program in Mali

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 9, 2012 Peace Corps has temporarily suspended its program in Mali due to ongoing concerns about volunteer security. All volunteers are safe and accounted for and are taking part in a transition conference in another country. If possible, volunteers will be offered the option to complete their service in another Peace Corps country.

Peace Corps will continue to assess the safety and security climate in Mali. The safety and security of volunteers is the Peace Corps' highest priority.

More than 2,550 Peace Corps volunteers have served in Mali since the program was established in 1971. Volunteers work in the areas of education, environment, agriculture, health and business.

Families with questions or concerns may contact the Peace Corps Counseling and Outreach Unit with any questions or concerns they may have. The Counseling and Outreach Unit maintains a 24-hour, seven days a week duty system. The telephone number during standard office hours is (800) 424-8580, extension 1470; the after-hours number is (202) 692-1470. The Counseling and Outreach Unit can also be contacted via e-mail at ossdutyofficer@peacecorps.gov.

About the Peace Corps: Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps by executive order on March 1, 1961, more than 200,000 Americans have served in 139 host countries. Today, 9,095 volunteers are working with local communities in 75 host countries. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment and the agencys mission is to promote world peace and friendship and a better understanding between Americans and people of other countries. Visit www.peacecorps.gov for more information.