GISF's Executive Director, Jon Novakovic, issued a statement today acknowledging new recommendations from the UN Secretary-General which emphasise safety and security.
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – 5 December 2024
“The Global Interagency Security Forum (GISF) welcomes the UN Secretary-General’s recommendations pursuant to Security Council Resolution 2730 (2024) on enhancing safety and security of aid workers. Addressed to the Security Council, the recommendations’ emphasis on strengthening security capacities to address an increasingly complex threat environment reflects the priorities of the humanitarian sector and the outcomes of extensive consultations with GISF’s members.
“The risks involved in serving the world’s most vulnerable continue to grow. As these recommendations were being developed, 2024 became the deadliest year on record for aid workers.
“Violations of International Humanitarian Law – the targeting of aid workers – only have a political solution. Aid workers, and the communities they serve, cannot wait for Member States to address this increasing trend of non-compliance.
“For those navigating daily threats, the explicit inclusion of support for security within the recommendations acknowledges the operational realities aid workers face and demonstrates a genuine commitment to protecting them through practical, actionable measures.
“GISF is also pleased to acknowledge a statement signed by 117 Member States in support of the recommendations. GISF and its international NGO members stand ready to support Member States to implement these recommendations and will monitor the fulfilment of commitments to strengthening aid worker security.”
Jon Novakovic, GISF Executive Director
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Media contact
The Global Interagency Security Forum (GISF) is a membership network of over 130 international NGOs, focused on security risk management to keep aid workers safe.
For more information on GISF’s role in UN Resolution 2730 and to request quotes or interviews, please contact christian@gisf.ngo.