With 24 attacks on aid workers so far this year, South Sudan continues to rank among the most dangerous places for humanitarian workers in 2024, the UN warned on Monday.
The UN humanitarian agency (UNOCHA) claimed in a statement on World Humanitarian Day that access issues in South Sudan impede efforts to provide critical, life-saving supplies to the most vulnerable populations.
There were 267 documented humanitarian access incidents between January and July, of which 135 involved direct aggression against humanitarian workers and property, including 28 instances of theft and looting. Fifteen members of the humanitarian team were compelled to leave their working locations due to escalating insecurity.
Humanitarian Coordinator for South Sudan, Ms. Anita KikIGbeho, said, “On World Humanitarian Day, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of humanitarian workers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.” It is impossible to overestimate their steadfast dedication to easing suffering and helping people in need.
The UN agency also issued a warning on the country’s humanitarian and economic prospects, given that it is dealing with 780,000 internally displaced people and refugees from the neighboring turmoil in Sudan, as well as uncertainties regarding crucial political developments that are essential for a smooth transition.
Three-quarters of South Sudan’s population, or 9 million people, are expected to need humanitarian help and protection by 2024, according to the agency.
Ms. Gbeho underlined, “We risk failing the millions who depend on it without a safe space for aid workers.” The Humanitarian Coordinator said, “With South Sudan on the verge of catastrophic flooding and thousands of returnees arriving from Sudan, the need for safe access to deliver essential aid is critical.”
The humanitarian community urges all parties to give the safety and security of aid workers in South Sudan a priority on World Humanitarian Day.
The UN General Assembly established a resolution in 2008 declaring August 19 to be World Humanitarian Day. World Humanitarian Day is observed on August 19 of each year. It promotes the safety and security of relief workers as well as the survival, well-being, and dignity of those impacted by crises.
