Over 100 United Nations member states came together on Tuesday to honour humanitarian aid workers who are increasingly losing their lives in conflicts worldwide, with 2024 marking a grim record.
Last year, 280 aid workers were killed across 33 countries—a figure that has already been surpassed this year, according to the Aid Worker Security Database. Speaking on behalf of 117 member states, Swiss ambassador Pascale Baeriswyl emphasised the importance of protecting those delivering lifesaving aid:
“We will repeat it as long as it is needed: Civilians and those who assist them must be respected and protected. They are not a target.”
The joint statement, backed by a majority of the 193 UN member states—including all Security Council members except Russia—paid tribute to the dedication of humanitarian workers, describing their work as essential to saving lives and alleviating suffering.
In a symbolic gesture, representatives stood behind 14 empty vintage chairs, each inscribed with the message “War has limits.” The chairs, gifted to the Security Council by Switzerland to mark the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, underscore the council’s responsibility to uphold international humanitarian law.
Baeriswyl urged the Security Council to uphold its “seat of duty” by ensuring the protection of vulnerable populations and those who assist them.
Abby Stoddard, founder of Humanitarian Outcomes, highlighted a troubling trend, noting that the 280 aid worker deaths in 2022 were more than double the annual average of the previous decade. This year has already surpassed that record, with 282 fatalities reported so far.
While the statement was widely supported, notable absences included Israel and Sudan, reflecting the complexities of geopolitical tensions. Despite this, the overwhelming majority of signatories reaffirmed their commitment to upholding humanitarian protections.
