South Sudan aid worker deaths hit record as violence escalates
At least 36 aid workers killed in South Sudan since January, surpassing 2025's toll, as attacks on humanitarian operations surge.
The United Nations has reported a sharp escalation in violence against humanitarian personnel in South Sudan, with at least 36 aid workers and contractors killed since the start of the year. This figure already exceeds the 31 deaths recorded throughout all of 2025, underscoring the country's position as one of the most perilous environments for humanitarian operations globally.
Ramanathan Balakrishnan, the UN humanitarian coordinator for South Sudan, issued a statement on World Humanitarian Day urging accountability. "These are not just statistics," he said, stressing that every killing must be investigated and that those responsible must face justice. He described the continued loss of aid personnel, the vast majority of whom are South Sudanese nationals, as unacceptable.
Data from the UN Mission in South Sudan shows more than 450 separate incidents of violence targeting aid workers and assets between January and July. This represents more than double the number recorded during the same period last year, reflecting a deteriorating security environment.
Renewed clashes between government forces and opposition fighters have forced several aid organisations to suspend operations and relocate from affected areas. This has further restricted access to vulnerable communities in a nation of roughly 12 million people, which has grappled with civil conflict and climate-related shocks since gaining independence in 2011.
Humanitarian agencies are calling on the government and all signatories to the 2018 peace agreement to protect aid workers, investigate attacks, and guarantee safe, unhindered access to those in need. The UN estimates that around 10 million people will require assistance this year, including over 7.5 million facing severe acute food insecurity.
The crisis is compounded by funding shortfalls. Last week, the UN refugee agency and the World Food Programme warned that more than 650,000 refugees and asylum seekers in South Sudan could lose access to essential food and nutrition support due to severe resource constraints.