Protect Aid Workers

Providing rapid support for aid workers at risk

Every day, thousands of humanitarian workers risk their lives helping people in conflict and disaster zones. At times, unfortunately, they themselves also become victims and need assistance. Sometimes they are targeted because of the work they do. Protect Aid Workers supports humanitarian staff who experience critical incidents in the line of duty, ensuring their safety and recovery.

A rapid-response mechanism for aid workers

Humanitarian work has become more dangerous in recent years. Attacks against humanitarian personnel, whether deliberate or not, continue and require joint efforts to address them.  Local and national frontline workers are the most exposed to violence and account for 80-90% of the individuals affected by a critical incident. Local organizations often have fewer options for mitigating risks or responding to such situations.

Protect Aid Workers is a rapid-response mechanism for aid workers and their immediate families who have suffered critical incidents such as injury, kidnapping, arrest and more. Protect Aid Workers supports their recovery and protects them from further harm.

Incidents of violence against aid workers

2025

92
Aid Workers Killed
64
Aid Workers Injured
45
Aid Workers Kidnapped
11
Aid Workers Arrested

2024

331
Aid Workers Killed
251
Aid Workers Injured
71
Aid Workers Kidnapped
207
Aid Workers Arrested

Last update: 10 June 2025