London, United Kingdom – 12 June 2025
The Global Interagency Security Forum (GISF) welcomes the UK International Development Committee’s report concluding its parliamentary inquiry into aid worker protection.
“The Committee cuts through the diplomatic ‘fluff’ and acknowledges the sad reality — protecting aid workers does not start and end with International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The world seems ever further away from full IHL adherence.
“The FCDO has an opportunity to be the global leader in supporting aid worker safety. It has a strong history to draw on and is well placed at the centre of global diplomacy; it just needs a green light from the government.”
The report delivers a clear warning: it has never been more dangerous to be a humanitarian aid worker. As aid worker deaths rise and access to people in need becomes increasingly restricted, political commitments must be backed by practical support. The Committee outlines key areas where the UK can have real impact.
“The recommendations make it clear the UK can lead by example—ensuring security is seen not as a cost to cut, but as the foundation for principled aid.”
GISF urges the UK Government to act on the report’s findings, prioritising:
- Establishing a dedicated SRM fund for NGOs to support broader security needs, including grants that catalyse pooled services and shared approaches;
- Reforming donor practices to enable equitable, direct engagement with national organisations on safety and access;
- Engaging with insurance providers to ensure affordable and inclusive coverage for NGOs, including local staff and volunteers.
In the wake of cuts to aid budgets, the Committee rightly notes that “defunding of costs associated with the security of aid workers would be a false economy.” If the UK is serious about protecting aid and the people risking their lives to deliver it, this is the moment to act.
GISF looks forward to working with the FCDO and Parliament to ensure these recommendations are translated into meaningful action.
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Summary of Security Risk Management in the UK International Development Committee’s report here.
Media contact
Alyssa Thurston, alyssa@gisf.ngo
GISF is the global membership network of over 130 NGOs, focussed on strengthening the safety and security of aid workers worldwide.