Burundi Workers, 1994

"Despite the killings they had witnessed or narrowly escaped, these men, in exile, willingly expend a great deal of energy to build the precarious towns that comprise refugee camps.

In areas around the world so remote and so dangerous where even soldiers do not dare venture, I have met dedicated men and women willing to take almost any risk to help hungry or sick civilians, damaged in body or soul. These humanitarian workers are ready to make great sacrifices and show humankind's best side. On various story assignments, many of the humanitarians I met in the most challenging areas were French. Their presence and dedication contribute to a positive image of France around the world. I remember the words of Massoud, leader of the Afghan resistance, who always welcomed the French with much enthusiasm and respect. One day he said to me, 'They are free and pure souls.'"