UN reports record number of humanitarian worker deaths in 2024

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported a tragic milestone for 2024, with 281 humanitarian workers losing their lives worldwide, marking a record high.

The figure surpasses the 280 deaths reported in 2023, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

OCHA, in its official statement, attributes much of the increase to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Since October 7, 2023, at least 320 aid workers have been killed in the region, with the majority of the victims affiliated with the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

Beyond Gaza, the report highlights other regions where humanitarian workers face significant threats to their safety, including Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, and Ukraine.

The majority of fatalities involve local staff working with non-governmental organizations, UN agencies and the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement. Violence against humanitarian personnel is part of a broader trend of harm to civilians in conflict zones. Last year, more than 33,000 civilian deaths were recorded in 14 armed conflicts – a staggering 72 per cent increase from 2022.

Despite the dangers, humanitarian organizations continue to deliver vital assistance, reaching nearly 144 million people in need last year. As of November 2024, they have supported more than 116 million people worldwide.

On May 24, 2024, the Security Council adopted Resolution 2730 in response to the growing violence and threats against humanitarian workers. The resolution mandates the Secretary-General to recommend measures to prevent and respond to such incidents, enhance accountability, and improve protection for humanitarian personnel and assets. These recommendations will be presented at a Security Council meeting on November 26.

By Vafa Guliyeva