Ogata declines invitation from International Olympic Committee

The President of the International Olympic Committee, Juan Antonio Samaranch, contacted High Commissioner Ogata yesterday afternoon (22 March) on her return from New York. He asked her if she would be willing and able to serve on the ethics panel being set up by the IOC. Mrs. Ogata replied that she was flattered to be asked to take on this responsibility but that looking after the welfare of the world's refugees is more than a full-time job. In view of her responsibilities as High Commissioner for Refugees, she would not feel able to take on this additional commitment. She therefore respectfully declined the invitation.