The international community condemned the killing of 4 humanitarian workers in northeast Nigeria, all belonging to the global organisation - Action Against Hunger. Dr Christos Christou, International President of Médecins Sans Frontières said " We are deeply saddened by the killing of four staff members from Action Against Hunger and call for the immediate release of the remaining member of the team. This is not the first time such horrific events have occurred in the past months in Nigeria, and our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by these tragedies, including family, friends and colleagues".
Noblest Profession
Although it is understood to be one of the noblest professions, aid work can have its share of dangers and risks. In volatile regions such as in the middle east or tensed areas of Africa, Latin America, they tend to face various hazards, often risking their lives for a stated cause. Such conflict areas are often associated with a collapsed or a frail central government where non-state actors and other non-official regimes operate more openly with a de-facto authority. Working under these unfavourable circumstances becomes challenging as the governmental support remains weak, and negotiations with other establishments remain open-ended and ambiguous. Humanitarian workers understand that, even though they are neutral players, exposure to risks is inevitable.
A 2018 Insecurity Analysis report analysis shows that around 155 aid workers were killed globally, with Syria topping the list with 81 victims, followed by South Sudan and Afghanistan having 15 and 14 casualties respectively. The national aid workers working for local NGOs and local non-profits were most affected. They represent over three-quarters of reported aid worker deaths. The study further claims that "a total of 15 national aid workers employed by INGOs were reportedly killed in Afghanistan (5), South Sudan (4), the DRC (2), the CAR, the OPT, Nigeria and Sudan (1 each)." This data is concerning as in 2017 a similar report by Aid Workers Security Report put the casualties figure at 139, suggesting an 11% rise in the deaths in 2018.
The data above undisputedly reveals that the working conditions under which the Humanitarian Aid Workers operate are becoming increasingly dangerous. As a result, it becomes pertinent enough that all nations reconsider the basic principles of International law, Geneva Conventions, religious laws ( all religions preach humanity ) with more urgency and vigour. Amendments in the charter should be deliberated to encompass the changing times that strengthen the security net for the aid workers.
The politicisation of International Forums.
As an adjunct to the life-threatening risks, the frontline humanitarian workers have time and again felt the burn of politicisation of organisations. Today, it is practically improbable to generate consensus in multinational humanitarian forums owing to the diverse national interests. The thin line between eco-political and humanitarian interest is, unfortunately, wilting away, and it is here when the humanitarian programs are undermined. Hunger doesn't consider political boundaries, nor epidemics and diseases check the economic interest of the states. Hence a more extensive and comprehensive charter vis-a-vis humanitarian aid programs must be drafted understanding humanity as a whole and not through a myopic political or commercial lens.
The lack of effective communication between the impartial, unbiased aid workers and the non-state actors remains as another area of worry. It must be recognised that any such communication must not be seen as an attempt to dethrone the sovereign head - but to penetrate aid in the deepest sectors of a conflicted area and at the same time ensuring the safety of the field workers.
Humanitarian aid workers, especially those on the field, work under immense pressure and extraordinary conditions, burning candles from both the ends. They are skilled professionals who more often than not, remain unnoticed. Although they seek no credit, it becomes imperative for the media to highlight their selfless contribution towards the society. The world must come together to reform and further consolidate the existing platforms in sync with the compassionate agenda stating - Humanity knowing no boundaries or religion.
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