August 19 marks World Humanitarian Day, a time to recognize aid workers who have sacrificed their own lives to help people affected by global crises. Since the deaths of 22 UN and relief agency staff in a Baghdad bombing 21 years ago, each year, honors aid workers who have lost their lives, as well as those who continue to put their lives on the line to help people in need across the globe. We also recognize the dedication of our humanitarian staff and partners.
Twenty-one years ago, a bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq killed 22 aid workers and injured hundreds more. The tragedy profoundly changed the way in which humanitarians operate – from being welcomed, to being targeted. Last year was the deadliest year on record for aid workers around the world. According to the Aid Worker Security Database, in 2023, nearly 600 humanitarians faced violent attacks, kidnapping, harassment, intimidation, or threats, including 280 individuals who were killed in the line of duty.
Tragically, this year is already shaping up to be an even deadlier year for aid workers. More than eight months into 2024, we are on track to see even higher numbers, with 173 recorded fatalities to date–an alarming upward trend that shows no signs of stopping. A majority of those killed last year were responding to the conflict in Gaza, which the United Nations recently declared the “most dangerous place in the world for aid workers.”
Attacks against aid workers are unacceptable, and we call on governments, combatants, and local authorities to ensure all humanitarians have immediate, safe, and unhindered access to populations in need.
We continue to express our tremendous gratitude to USAID partners and staff around the world for their courageous service, and we honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Learn more about USAID’s life saving humanitarian work.