Save the Children Resumes Operations in Yemen After a Temporary Suspension

SANA'A, Yemen (Nov. 6, 2023)—Save the Children resumed its operations in Yemen today after a 10-day suspension following the death of a staff member in detention that led to calls for an immediate independent investigation and a period of mourning for the organization.

The aid agency suspended its programs in the northern part of the country after the unexplained death of Safety and Security Director Hisham Al-Hakimi, 44, a father of four, who was detained on September 9. His funeral was held on October 29.

While Save the Children continues to grieve Hisham, the organization also remains committed to the children of Yemen, where 21.6 million people—including 11 million children—are expected to need humanitarian assistance and protection this year.

Save the Children continues to demand for an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances of Hisham’s death.

The suspended programs accounted for more than 65% of Save the Children’s operations in the country.  Last year the organization reached 1.8 million people in Yemen, including 1.1 million children.

"During this time of reflection, we not only honored Hisham's memory but also reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of our staff," said David Wright, Chief Operating Officer at Save the Children. “The needs of the children in Yemen are immense, and they continue to be our driving force. As we resume our operations, we remain dedicated to providing the lifesaving assistance children require.

The tragic death of Hisham is a stark reminder of the severe challenges that Yemen continues to face, but it will not deter Save the Children or the humanitarian community from providing aid. It is critical for the international community, parties to the conflict, and all stakeholders involved to recognize and uphold the neutrality and safety of humanitarian staff who are dedicated to serving the most vulnerable populations.

Save the Children has been working in Yemen since 1963, implementing programs in education, child protection, health and nutrition, water and sanitation, and emergency response across most of the country.

###

 

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. Since our founding more than 100 years ago, we've been advocating for the rights of children worldwide. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming the future we share. Our results, financial statements and charity ratings reaffirm that Save the Children is a charity you can trust. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.