The United Nations has confirmed that 2024 has become the deadliest year on record for aid workers, with over 320 humanitarian personnel, primarily UN staff, killed in Gaza since October 7, 2023. The alarming figure underscores the heightened risks faced by those working in conflict zones.
Globally, 281 aid workers have been killed across various regions, surpassing all previous annual records. Conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, and Yemen have contributed significantly to the toll, with reports of increasing kidnappings, injuries, and harassment targeting humanitarian personnel.
In response to the escalating crisis, the UN Security Council will convene on November 26 for an urgent session to address the safety of aid workers. The council is expected to propose new measures aimed at enhancing protections for those delivering critical humanitarian assistance in the world’s most dangerous regions.
Key Points:
- Record Death Toll: 2024 has become the deadliest year for aid workers, with over 320 fatalities, including 281 UN staff, recorded globally.
- Gaza Crisis: The majority of deaths occurred in Gaza, where more than 320 humanitarian personnel have been killed since October 7, 2023.
- Global Risks: Conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, and Yemen have also seen a surge in violence against aid workers, including kidnappings, injuries, and harassment.
- UN Response: The UN Security Council will hold an urgent session on November 26 to address the crisis and propose enhanced protections for aid workers.
- Humanitarian Concerns: The rising dangers highlight the increasing risks faced by those delivering vital assistance in conflict zones worldwide.
