19th August, World Humanitarian Day – Attacks on humanitarian workers have reached unprecedented levels, with 861 victims in 2024 alone. On World Humanitarian Day, Protect Humanitarians and its partners issue a press release calling for urgent global action to increase protection, support and advocacy for those risking their lives to save others. Read the full statement HERE.

Record violence against humanitarians

In 2024, 861 humanitarian workers were victims of major security incidents: 383 killed, 308 wounded, 125 kidnapped, and 45 arrested or detained. From Gaza to Ukraine, Sudan to DR Congo, those who help innocent civilians are increasingly under attack. Nearly 97% of those killed, injured, or abducted were local or national staff – the very people from affected communities who form the backbone of humanitarian assistance (Humanitarian Outcomes, Aid Worker Security Database, aidworkersecurity.org).

Four urgent actions to Protect Humanitarians

Protect Humanitarians and its partners urge States, institutions, and field actors to adopt immediate and measurable steps to better protect, support and advocate for humanitarian workers:

• Strengthen accountability – Investigate violations of International Humanitarian Law and guarantee access to justice for victims and survivors.
• Promote Duty of Care – Ensure minimum standards of protection, support, and assistance for local and national staff.
• Increase mental health and psychosocial support – Provide accessible training, care, and long-term psychological support.
• Amplify survivor voices – Place victims and survivors at the center of advocacy, policies, and reforms.

“Local humanitarians face the greatest risks, yet paradoxically receive the least protection and support. Their protection and support must be embedded as a right in every partnership, budget, and humanitarian plan. Could that be our shared resolution this World Humanitarian Day?”

Sudhanshu Shekhar Singh, CEO of Humanitarian Aid International.

“World Humanitarian Day takes on a profound and painful resonance in Ukraine. Ukrainian humanitarians’ powerful force born of necessity demands our unwavering commitment in return. Protecting those who protect the vulnerable is paramount. Their sustainability and safety are non-negotiable.”

Mila Leonova, Director of the Alliance of Ukrainian Civil Society Organizations (Alliance UA CSO).

“This is a decisive moment for the humanitarian sector. When we act together, our voice is stronger. This World Humanitarian Day, let us not only honour humanitarians workers but commit to protecting them—because protecting humanitarians means protecting lives.”

Olivier Vandecasteele, Founder and Director of Protect Humanitarians.