The delegation in Lima, which was opened in 1984, has expanded over the years, to keep pace with the mounting violence throughout the country, in its efforts to assist security detainees and civilians affected by the internal conflict. The expatriate staff was increased to 31 by the end of the year and after numerous field surveys, operations were extended into areas previously cut off to any aid whatsoever. The ICRC therefore played a key role in bringing assistance and protection to victims of the conflict where no one else could.