World Humanitarian Day is commemorated and is observed annually to recognise the work done by humanitarian workers and agencies worldwide by venturing into disaster-stricken regions and on to frontlines to save and protect people’s lives.
On World Humanitarian Day, people must pledge to help those in need and improve the lives and living standards of people who fight on a regular basis to achieve their basic requirements in life.
History
In 2008, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution designating August 19 as World Humanitarian Day to honour the memories of those who lost their lives in the Baghdad, Iraq bombings. On August 19, 2003, twenty-two humanitarian workers and one UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General In Iraq were killed at Canal Hotel. The UN Officer was Sergio Vieira de Mello.
Theme
The Theme for the World Humanitarian Day 2023 is “No Matter What.” It focuses on showcasing the importance, effectiveness, and positive impact of Humanitarian work around the world. According to one UN official, “Humanitarian Work is difficult and dangerous, but we do not give up our commitments to overcome the challenges and deliver life-saving assistance to people in need.”
As per the UN, the theme of World Humanitarian Day each year focuses on bringing together partners across the humanitarian system to advocate for the survival, well-being and dignity of people affected due to crisis.
It is important to note that World Humanitarian Day is celebrated with a different theme every year. The programs are based on the theme of spreading awareness about this day among people. More people should take part in programs.
Significance
On this day, the world comes together to honour the sacrifices and works done by people who tirelessly work to change and make the lives better for people in crisis. Despite the challenges and shortcomings, some people keep working for those in need and extend their unwavering support in dire situations.
According to the UN Data, around 362 million people in the globe need humanitarian assistance by the middle of 2023. Moreover, 444 humanitarian workers were attacked, 116 were killed and 143 wounded, and 185 were kidnapped in 2022.
World Humanitarian Day is an important reminder of the challenges faced by humanitarian workers all around the world in delivering aid to people in need It also serves as an expression of the UN’s commitment to reaching people in need of humanitarian assistance while upholding the values of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence.
In recent years, World Humanitarian Day has been linked to the broader goals of sustainable development as it underscores the critical role of humanitarian action in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by addressing the needs of the most vulnerable and marginalised populations.
Celebration
The United Nations often launches an annual campaign in the lead-up to World Humanitarian Day, which is known as “The Humanitarian Heroes” and aims to recognise and celebrate the contributions of individuals who have shown extraordinary dedication to humanitarian work.
Since its establishment, World Humanitarian Day has been observed globally through various events, campaigns and activities that highlight the vital role of humanitarian workers and advocate for their protection.
Challenges
Humanitarian Agencies and personnel are exposed to a wide variety of risks that include working on the most dangerous and volatile regions of the planet, which threatens and endangers their lives and safety to a great extent, they face a lack of resources, and they undergo severe emotional tolls.
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