At least 350 humanitarian workers lost their lives worldwide last year, marking another tragic year for violence against aid workers, according to the United Nations. The UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that the death toll in 2025 saw a slight decrease from the previous year, which recorded the highest number of fatalities with 387 aid workers killed globally.
In addition to the fatalities, 322 aid workers were injured in attacks last year, while 235 were abducted, as per the Aid Worker Security Database. UN Secretary General António Guterres expressed concerns about the increasing danger faced by those serving others, emphasizing the risks involved in humanitarian work.
The Gaza Strip retained its position as the most dangerous place for aid workers for the third consecutive year, with 186 workers losing their lives in 2025 during Israel’s conflict in the region, as reported by OCHA. Sudan also witnessed significant violence, with 71 aid workers killed last year amid the ongoing civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.
The UN’s humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher, condemned the unacceptable toll on aid workers, highlighting the need for strict enforcement of international humanitarian laws and accountability for those violating them. OCHA reported that 82 aid workers have been killed, 97 injured, and 39 kidnapped so far this year.
The use of armed drones in conflict zones has raised alarms, with OCHA pointing out their involvement in attacks on markets and health facilities in Sudan, resulting in a significant number of civilian casualties. Fletcher emphasized the threat posed by weaponized drones, noting their role in targeting civilians deliberately or recklessly.
Overall, the safety and protection of aid workers remain a critical concern, with continued efforts needed to ensure their security in challenging environments.
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