International development workers play a vital role in responding to crises, rebuilding communities, and supporting vulnerable populations in some of the world’s most challenging environments. From conflict zones to countries facing economic collapse or natural disasters, these workers risk their lives to deliver aid and support. However, the very nature of their work places them in unstable and dangerous regions, where safety can never be guaranteed.
Despite legal protections under international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions, violations remain widespread. This article explores some of the most dangerous countries for aid workers as of 2024–2025, and the growing challenges they face.
Yemen
Yemen remains one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Years of conflict between the Saudi-led coalition and Houthi rebels have devastated infrastructure and crippled basic services. As of 2024, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that over 17 million Yemenis face food insecurity.
Warring factions continue to block aid access, and relief workers must operate in high-risk zones under constant threat. Aid convoys have been attacked, supplies looted, and security restrictions have delayed lifesaving missions. Despite these obstacles, NGOs continue to operate in Yemen due to the sheer scale of the need.
Afghanistan
Following the withdrawal of NATO forces and the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, Afghanistan has faced spiralling economic collapse, severe droughts, and natural disasters. Earthquakes in 2023 and 2024 caused mass displacement, compounding the suffering of communities already struggling with food shortages and restricted access to healthcare.
ISIS-K continues to pose a threat, especially in urban areas, while restrictions on women have made it harder for female aid workers to operate. Despite the risks, humanitarian organisations remain active in the country, but rely heavily on local staff and community-level negotiations.
Syria
More than a decade of civil war has left Syria divided, with some regions under government control and others run by rebel or Kurdish groups. The humanitarian need remains vast — over 15 million people still require aid in 2024, according to UNOCHA.
Many areas are off-limits to international staff due to security concerns. Attacks on aid convoys, bureaucratic obstacles, and shifting front lines make even routine deliveries risky. The destruction of infrastructure and hospitals further compounds challenges for aid providers.
Nigeria
In northern Nigeria, the insurgency led by Boko Haram and its splinter groups continues to disrupt education, healthcare, and food security efforts. More than 8 million people need assistance in the northeast alone. The United Nations has repeatedly called attention to targeted attacks on aid facilities and personnel.
Some regions remain under military control, while others are governed by local militias. As a result, organisations must constantly negotiate access while navigating widespread mistrust, logistical difficulties, and safety risks.
South Sudan
Despite a peace agreement signed in 2018, South Sudan remains unstable. Intercommunal violence, flooding, displacement, and limited infrastructure have made aid delivery incredibly complex. According to the International Rescue Committee, over 9 million people require humanitarian support in 2024.
Aid workers are frequently caught in crossfire or targeted in robberies and carjackings. Road travel is particularly hazardous, and many organisations rely on air drops or convoys with armed escorts to reach remote communities.
Venezuela
Venezuela’s economic collapse has driven over 7 million people to flee the country, according to UNHCR. Inside the country, the healthcare system remains in crisis, electricity and water supplies are unreliable, and malnutrition is widespread.
Although the government has recently permitted limited humanitarian access, many NGOs face delays, red tape, and surveillance. Aid workers operate in an environment marked by crime, mistrust, and political pressure.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
The DRC continues to face severe humanitarian challenges, particularly in the eastern provinces. Multiple armed groups control large swathes of territory, and aid convoys have been attacked or looted. In addition to ongoing conflict, the country has suffered repeated outbreaks of Ebola and measles.
The World Health Organization confirmed that local mistrust of health workers hampers containment efforts. In some communities, aid workers are viewed with suspicion, particularly where misinformation about disease origins is widespread.
Challenges aid workers face
Beyond the obvious physical risks, international development workers face psychological strain, cultural barriers, and operational difficulties. Many work long hours in isolated conditions with limited mental health support. In conflict zones, navigating the complex web of local politics and armed groups adds another layer of danger.
Security training, protective protocols, and remote monitoring have become standard, but they can only do so much. Aid workers must constantly balance their mission against the risks to their lives.
Attacks on aid workers
According to the Aid Worker Security Database (AWSD), 2022 saw 268 attacks against aid workers, with 116 killed, 117 injured, and 35 kidnapped. The highest number of incidents occurred in South Sudan, Mali, Myanmar, and the DRC. Most victims were local staff, who often bear the brunt of the danger on the front lines.
Despite clear protections in international law, including UN resolutions, enforcement remains weak in practice. Humanitarian organisations continue to press for stronger safeguards, better coordination with local authorities, and accountability for attacks.
To conclude –
The international development community is stretched thin by the scale and complexity of modern crises. Whether operating in the midst of civil war, post-conflict instability, or state collapse, aid workers are facing unprecedented challenges.
The situation demands not just bravery, but smarter coordination, diplomatic engagement, and greater investment in staff welfare. Building trust with communities, partnering with local organisations, and negotiating safe access with all stakeholders are essential for progress.
Until then, the people risking their lives to bring help where it’s needed most will continue to do so in the face of grave danger. Their courage deserves not only recognition but active support.