Humanitarians in action

The people who help protect children

On World Humanitarian Day on 19 August we highlight the work of our humanitarian staff across the world who stand side by side with children. We call for their protection at a time when their work is underfunded, overstretched and under attack.

Globally, a growing number of crises – brought by conflict, climate disasters and food insecurity – are putting the lives of children at risk. But humanitarian workers around the world are offering their expertise, courage and duty of care to the children we are committed to protect.

Often they do so at great peril to their own lives and wellbeing, working in some of the world’s toughest places.

We call for the protection of humanitarians

Last year was the deadliest on record for aid workers, with 383 people killed, including about 172 killed by this time last year. 

This prompted Australia–together with a handful of other countries–to draft the Declaration on the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel, underscoring the international community’s commitment to reverse the deadly trend facing aid workers. 

However, despite the creation of the declaration, 2025 is on track to become the deadliest year on record, with 248 aid workers killed so far this year, up 44% from this time last year, according to the provisional count from the Aid Worker Security Database.

Save the Children is calling on all governments to demand accountability for every violation of international humanitarian law against aid workers—and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. 

We stand in solidarity with aid workers

From Somalia, Gaza, South Sudan, Türkiye, Ukraine, Haiti and many more, our humanitarians respond to the needs of children as soon as crisis occurs and long after the headlines have moved on. Their commitment to help children survive their toughest moments, while helping them recover and rebuild for better futures cannot be ignored.

Our supporter community helps make their lifesaving work possible.

Meet the Save the Children humanitarians responding to the crucial needs of every child, in every crisis.

With our supporters’ help, Save the Children works globally across more than 110 countries to rapidly respond to humanitarian emergencies and deliver innovative development programs. Our humanitarians are committed to protect children’s rights, to ensure their voices are heard and to build a better future where children can thrive.

We stand with our dedicated staff, who work closely with local communities, including in some of the world’s most remote regions, to give children a world they deserve – one that is safe, nurturing and respectful of their rights. 

We thank our humanitarians worldwide and our community of supporters for having hearts that beat strong for children every day. 

Banner Photo: Save the Children.    

^*Names have been changed to protect identities.