Letter to the Editor: Aid workers should not die doing their jobs

Next Monday, World Humanitarian Day, pays tribute to aid workers, especially those killed doing their jobs. Around the world, 130m people are now dependent on humanitarian assistance. With 80% of need found in zones of conflict, the work of agencies that deliver aid is becoming increasingly dangerous and restrictive.

Last year, 131 aid workers were killed, with many more kidnapped or seriously injured, according to the most recent Aid Worker Security Report. The precariousness of humanitarian work reflects not only the deepening of conflict in many areas of the world, but also a growing disregard for aid workers and civilian populations.