Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
The United Nations renewed its call on Monday for the release of 23 of its employees detained by the Houthis.
In a statement, the organization said, “This solemn day serves as a reminder of the grave risks faced by UN staff and humanitarian workers while carrying out their duties in some of the world’s most complex environments.”
The statement added, “At present, at least 52 UN employees remain detained worldwide, including 23 held by the Houthis in Yemen.”
According to the statement, the President of the United Nations General Assembly, Philemon Yang, made a strong appeal for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained UN staff, whether in Yemen or elsewhere.
“In Yemen, 23 UN employees, along with numerous other humanitarian workers, remain in detention—some for more than three years. One UN humanitarian worker from the World Food Programme died while in detention,” the statement continued.
The statement emphasized, “Our detained colleagues dedicated themselves to educating children, providing essential medical and food aid to millions, and fostering peace and dialogue. Their work must be protected. I stand in full solidarity with all those detained. They must be released and safeguarded.”
The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members, observed on March 25, highlights the severe risks faced by UN and humanitarian organization employees. This is particularly relevant in Yemen, where several UN staff members have been held in detention by the de facto Houthi authorities since 2021, according to the statement.
