Increased number of aid workers lost their lives in the year 2024, as reported by the United Nations
In a sobering revelation, the United Nations (UN) has disclosed that at least 383 humanitarian workers have lost their lives globally since the beginning of 2024. This alarming figure, a 31% increase compared to the previous year, serves as a stark reflection of the growing dangers faced by aid personnel.
The UN's Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, has unequivocally condemned the violence against aid workers. He described the toll as a "shocking record" and a stark reminder of the urgent need for stronger global action to protect aid workers and hold perpetrators accountable.
One of the most tragic incidents occurred in Rafah, southern Gaza, on 23 March. An attack resulted in the deaths of 15 medics and responders. Israeli forces reportedly opened fire on clearly marked emergency vehicles, a violation of international humanitarian law, according to the UN.
Nearly half of these deaths, 181, occurred in Gaza. The UN reiterated its calls for an immediate end to such attacks and for those responsible to be held accountable.
In addition to the fatalities, 308 aid workers were injured during the same period. Furthermore, 125 aid workers were kidnapped, and 45 were detained.
The UN's announcement comes as the world commemorates World Humanitarian Day, a day that honours those who have lost their lives in humanitarian service and reminds us of the challenges they faced. The day is particularly poignant this year, marking the 19th anniversary of the bombing of the UN headquarters in Baghdad, which claimed the lives of 22 humanitarian staff, including UN rights chief Sergio Vieira de Mello.
The UN has called on governments, organisations, and individuals to take action to ensure the safety and security of aid workers. The organisation emphasised that these attacks not only undermine humanitarian efforts but also inflict immense suffering on the communities they are intended to help.
The countries where these incidents occurred include Norwegen, Oman, Austria, Pakistan, Palestinian Territories (West Bank and Gaza), Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Rwanda, Romania, Russia, Solomon Islands, Zambia, Saint Lucia, São Tomé and Príncipe, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Switzerland, Senegal, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Zimbabwe, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Somalia, Spain, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Sudan, South Korea, South Sudan, Suriname, Eswatini, Syria, Tajikistan, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Chad, Czech Republic, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Hungary, Uruguay, USA, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Venezuela, and many others.
As the world continues to grapple with crises and conflicts, the UN urges all parties to respect the neutrality and protection of aid workers, ensuring they can continue their vital work in providing aid and assistance to those in need.
