South Sudan remains one of the most perilous environments for humanitarian workers in 2024, with 24 attacks on aid workers recorded so far this year, the UN said Monday.
In a statement on the accusation of World Humanitarian Day, the UN humanitarian agency (UNOCHA) said access constraints across South Sudan hamper efforts to deliver urgent, life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable populations.
Between January and July, 267 humanitarian access incidents were reported, with 135 incidents involving direct violence against humanitarian personnel and assets, including 28 incidents of looting and theft. Escalating insecurity has forced 15 humanitarian staff to relocate from their operational areas.
“On World Humanitarian Day, we honour the bravery and sacrifice of humanitarian workers who have lost their lives in the line of duty,” said Ms. Anita Kiki Gbeho, the Humanitarian Coordinator for South Sudan. “Their unwavering commitment to alleviating suffering and delivering assistance to those in need cannot be overstated.”
The UN agency also warned about the humanitarian and economic outlook in a country facing the effect of conflict in neighbouring Sudan 780,000 refugees and internally displaced people; uncertainty in the face of critical political events necessary for a successful transition.
In 2024, 9 million people – three-quarters of South Sudan’s population – are projected to require humanitarian and protection assistance, the agency said.
“Without a safe space for aid workers, we risk failing the millions who depend on it,” emphasized Ms. Gbeho. “With South Sudan on the brink of severe flooding and thousands of returnees arriving from Sudan, the need for safe access to deliver vital aid is critical,” concluded the Humanitarian Coordinator.
On World Humanitarian Day, the humanitarian community calls on all stakeholders to prioritize the safety and security of humanitarian workers in South Sudan.
In 2008, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution designating 19 August as World Humanitarian Day. Each year on 19 August, World Humanitarian Day advocates for the survival, well-being and dignity of people affected by crises, and for the safety and security of aid workers.