London, United Kingdom – 21 September 2025
NGOs welcome today’s launch of the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel at the UN General Assembly, but caution that unless states back words with resources, staff on the frontlines will remain exposed.
Developed by a group of Member States led by Australia and supported by the UK, the Declaration represents a renewed global commitment to protect humanitarian workers who face unprecedented risks.
“Too often, we stop at reaffirming International Humanitarian Law. But the reality is that attacks persist daily; aid workers, and the communities they serve, cannot wait for states to adhere to international law,” said Jon Novakovic, Executive Director of the Global Interagency Security Forum, a group of 140+ NGOs – including leading UK organisations such as CAFOD, International Rescue Committee (IRC), Mines Advisory Group (MAG), Oxfam, and CARE – dedicated to improving aid worker safety.
“This Declaration matters because it recognises that protection must also mean resourcing the security systems that keep people safe on the ground.”
Darren Cormack, Chief Executive of global landmine charity MAG, said: “Aid workers can’t deliver life-saving assistance if they’re not safe themselves. The backing of the UK is crucial and now we need to see urgent follow-through from all states to ensure that this unacceptable toll on humanitarian workers is reduced.”
2024 was the deadliest year on record for aid workers, with 383 killed worldwide. With deaths at record levels for the second year running, the UK has joined a global push to protect humanitarian personnel.
“The momentum is real, but words will only matter if backed by action. Humanitarian actors must have safe unhindered access to reach and assist people in conflict zones. And there needs to be real accountability when aid workers are attacked,” said Colin McIlreavy, Chief Safety and Security Officer at the IRC.
Almost 95% of aid workers killed are local staff, according to the UN. “Our local and national partners are on the frontlines every day. This Declaration must mean they get the same protection and resources as international staff,” said Howard Mollett, Head of Humanitarian Policy, CAFOD.
GISF and its 140 member charities look forward to engaging with states, donors, and the UN system to ensure the Declaration translates into practical commitments for the aid workers risking their lives to deliver aid.
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Media contact
Alyssa Thurston, alyssa@gisf.ngo
The Global Interagency Security Forum, based in London, is the global membership network of over 140 NGOs, focussed on strengthening the safety and security of aid workers worldwide.