More than half of staff who died in service worked in Gaza, UN chief says at memorial
More Than Half of UN Staff Who Died in Service Worked in Gaza
More than half of staff who died – The United Nations has highlighted the significant toll of its staff casualties during a recent memorial ceremony, where Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that more than half of those who died while performing their duties were stationed in Gaza. The event, held on Monday, honored 136 personnel who lost their lives in 2025, underscoring the critical role these individuals played in humanitarian and peacekeeping efforts across the globe.
Global Commitment in the Face of Tragedy
“More than half of staff who died in service were in Gaza, a testament to the immense risks they faced while supporting peace and aid in one of the world’s most volatile regions,” Guterres said during the tribute.
“The loss of these individuals not only impacts their families but also reminds us of the importance of protecting UN personnel who work tirelessly to uphold international law and human dignity,” he added.
The memorial service featured poignant moments, including a symbolic candlelighting, a solemn moment of silence, and the recitation of names by UN officials. These acts served as a tribute to the diverse backgrounds of the fallen, from educators to healthcare workers, who dedicated their lives to humanitarian causes. The event also drew attention to the broader challenges faced by the UN in maintaining security for its staff during active conflicts.
UNRWA’s Role and the Gaza Context
A notable portion of the casualties—80 individuals—were associated with UNRWA, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. These staff members operated in Gaza, where the UN has been deeply involved in providing essential services to displaced populations and supporting educational and medical initiatives. Guterres reiterated that Gaza has witnessed the highest number of UN staff deaths compared to any other conflict or disaster in the organization’s history, underscoring the region’s ongoing challenges.
“More than half of staff who died in service were in Gaza, a region where the UN has long been committed to protecting vulnerable communities,” Guterres stated, reflecting on the agency’s presence and the dangers it faces.
“The dedication of UN staff in Gaza has been unwavering, yet the frequency of casualties raises urgent questions about the security measures and the broader context of the conflict,” he noted.
Historically, the UN has held annual memorials to honor its fallen personnel, with Guterres leading the ceremonies since 2011. This year’s tribute followed previous events that honored 168 staff members in 2024 and 188 in 2023. The consistent focus on Gaza in these memorials highlights its significance as a frontline zone for UN operations. The emotional weight of these losses has prompted calls for greater support and protection for staff in the region.
The memorial also included a performance by a violinist, adding a reflective tone to the proceedings. Attendees, including representatives from 32 nations, expressed solidarity with the families of the deceased and acknowledged the sacrifices made by UN staff in the pursuit of global peace. The ceremony served as both a remembrance and a rallying point for continued commitment to humanitarian efforts.
As the UN continues its work in Gaza, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in peacekeeping and relief operations. More than half of staff who died in service have been linked to the region, reflecting the intense challenges faced by those on the ground. The Secretary-General’s address emphasized the need for international cooperation to ensure the safety of UN personnel while addressing the root causes of conflict and displacement in Gaza.