Record Number of Aid Workers Killed in 2024
The United Nations has reported a staggering increase in violence against aid workers in 2024, marking the highest number of fatalities since records began. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, 281 aid workers have lost their lives this year, surpassing the previous record of 280 deaths set in 2023. The majority of these fatalities occurred in the Gaza Strip, where 178 aid workers were killed amid ongoing conflict.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza and Beyond
The grim statistics highlight the perilous conditions faced by humanitarian workers, particularly in conflict zones. In addition to the deaths in Gaza, 25 aid workers were killed in Sudan, underscoring the global nature of this crisis. Jens Laerke, a spokesperson for the UN, expressed deep concern over the violence, emphasizing that these individuals are engaged in critical work to assist those in need. Most of the victims were local employees, with 13 being international aid workers.
Call for Protection and Accountability
Despite international humanitarian law protecting aid workers, enforcement remains a significant challenge. Experts point out that there is little precedent for holding violators accountable, often due to fears of jeopardizing future aid access and the complexities involved in proving intent. Tom Fletcher, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, condemned the violence as “unacceptable and devastating,” urging states and parties in conflict to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers and uphold international law. The UN has linked this violence to a broader trend of attacks on civilians, with over 33,000 civilian deaths recorded in 14 armed conflicts last year, a staggering 72% increase from 2022.
