Humanitarian Day

World Humanitarian Day History

World Humanitarian Day (WHD) is observed to celebrate humanitarian workers who risk their lives to provide aid to people affected by crises and raise awareness about humanitarian issues. The day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008 to mark the tragic terrorist attack on the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq, on 19 August 2003. The attack claimed the lives of 22 people, including the UN Special Representative for Iraq, Sérgio Vieira de Mello. WHD is an occasion to honour the sacrifices of humanitarian workers and to mobilize global support for their noble cause to alleviate human suffering caused by conflicts, natural disasters, and pandemics.

World Humanitarian Day is observed every year by various organizations, including the British Red Cross, Save the Children, UNICEF, and Oxfam. These organizations collaborate to raise awareness about humanitarian issues and promote their activities through various events, campaigns, and social media activities. They highlight the challenges faced by humanitarian workers in the field, promote the safety and security of aid workers, and mobilize public support for their work. The events aim to inspire people to donate their time, resources, and energy in support of humanitarian causes and to raise public awareness about the need for humanitarian assistance across the globe. World Humanitarian Day is observed annually on August 19th.

Humanitarian Day facts

• Despite all the money and aid that is being given for humanitarian relief, it is still estimated that one-third of all global humanitarian needs are not being met.
• Over 2 billion people, or around 30% of the global population, lack access to adequate sanitation facilities, according to the World Health Organization.
• The United Nations Development Programme reports that nearly 800 million people live on less than $1.90 per day, with the majority residing in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia.
• The UK is home to several international humanitarian organizations including Oxfam, Save the Children, Red Cross, UNICEF, and many others.
• Humanitarian workers in the UK often enjoy a high level of job security, with many organizations offering long-term contracts and competitive salaries.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Humanitarian Day

Top things to do in the UK for Humanitarian Day

• Donate to MedShare International. It recycles surplus medical supplies and equipment from hospitals and clinics and redistributes them to healthcare facilities in nations in need. MedShare is rated as one of the best and most efficient charitable organizations in the world.
• Join a local or international humanitarian work project. Try raising money for a cause or volunteering for organizations that work with children, refugees, or the old and sick.
• Educate yourself and others by reading books, news articles, or attending lectures on humanitarian issues.
• Visit a museum or exhibition that showcases humanitarian efforts or raises awareness on global crises. Examples include the Imperial War Museum in London or the Migration Museum.