United Nations Personnel Faces Increasing Danger in Conflict Zones,

In a press release issued by the United Nations Staff Union Standing Committee on the Security and Independence of the International Civil Service, it has been revealed that at least 11 United Nations personnel lost their lives in deliberate attacks in 2023. The casualties include seven military personnel and four civilians. These figures do not include the personnel from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Middle East (UNRWA) who died in the conflict in Gaza.

Tragically, 142 UNRWA personnel, including doctors, teachers, engineers, and support staff, were confirmed killed in the conflict between Israel and Hamas, marking the largest loss during a conflict in the United Nations’ 78-year history.

The report highlights that the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) once again saw the highest number of fatalities among peacekeepers in 2023, with five casualties. This was followed by one fatality each in the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). The peacekeepers who died in 2023 were from Senegal, Burkina Faso, Rwanda, and South Africa.

Additionally, the report reveals that three World Food Programme (WFP) civilian staff members were killed in violence in Sudan, while another WFP staff member was fatally shot in Yemen. These incidents highlight the dangers faced by humanitarian workers in conflict zones.

The rising number of deliberate attacks on United Nations personnel underscores the urgent need for increased protection and security measures in these areas. The United Nations and its member states must work together to ensure the safety and well-being of those who dedicate their lives to promoting peace, providing aid, and assisting communities affected by conflicts worldwide.

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