The Prince of Wales has condemned the killing of aid workers in regions such as Gaza as a “cruel affront” to humanitarian principles. Speaking at the launch of the first global memorial for humanitarian workers in west London, William paid tribute to their “courage and sacrifice” and honoured those who had died.
At Wednesday’s event at Gunnersbury Park, the prince addressed guests including staff from aid organisations such as Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) and the Mines Advisory Group, as well as bereaved families and survivors of attacks. In his speech, he said: “Too often, hundreds of humanitarian aid workers around the world are killed while on duty. Last year, the number was 385. This year, it has already reached 300.”
William called for better protection and recognition for aid workers, stating: “We must champion and fight for their access to people in the most desperate of circumstances. We must do more to recognise their service, and more to protect them.” He noted the presence of aid workers in Gaza as “a thread of shared humanity through even the grimmest of environments”.
After his speech, William met attendees including Sunny La Valle, a humanitarian worker who previously worked for MSF. She said of the prince’s presence: “It’s hugely important, because it kind of helps us shine a spotlight on the issue.” The memorial, formally opened by William, is a circle of 15 green human-sized figures created by British artist Michael Landy, honouring humanitarians who have died in service.
