Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that in 2025, 907 aid workers were victims of violence, including 350 fatalities—the second-highest toll ever recorded. Although the number of deaths decreased compared to previous years, levels remain historically high. Injuries and kidnappings are still serious threats: 322 aid workers were injured and 235 kidnapped in 2025, according to the Humanitarian Outcomes’ Aid Worker Security Database, funded by the Australian and Canadian governments. This violence has continued into 2026, with 82 killed, 97 injured, and 39 kidnapped so far worldwide.
Gaza was the deadliest environment for aid workers for the third consecutive year in 2025, with 186 killed—68% from aerial bombardments. Sudan saw rising fatalities for the fifth straight year, with a record 71 aid worker deaths, mainly from small arms fire. Other regions with significant insecurity included Ukraine, Ethiopia, Syria, Haiti, Chad, and Cameroon, where kidnappings and aerial attacks were common.
On World Humanitarian Day, UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the increasing threats to humanitarian personnel, including disinformation, reduced funding, and restricted aid access. He commemorated those killed in conflict, such as the 22 UN staff members killed in Baghdad 23 years ago, and urged humanitarian workers to uphold their values.
Tom Fletcher, UN Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, noted that over 1,000 aid workers have been killed in the past three years—a situation he called unacceptable. He urged member states to enforce international humanitarian law rigorously and ensure accountability for violations to protect aid workers and civilians.
Humanitarian organizations also face new challenges with the rise of inexpensive and adaptable armed drones, which increase lethal capabilities for more conflict actors.