World Humanitarian Day is more than just a date on the calendar—It's a call to recognise and honour the courage of the brave souls who risk their lives to bring aid and relief to people in need in the world's most dangerous places.
This year, as we reflect on the history behind this important day, the focus turns to the escalating challenges faced by humanitarian workers and the urgent need for global action.
Join us as we explore the origins of World Humanitarian Day and offer five meaningful ways you can play an integral role in the 2024 #ActForHumanity campaign to support these frontline heroes.
When is World Humanitarian Day?
World Humanitarian Day is on 19 August every year.
What is the History Behind World Humanitarian Day?
World Humanitarian Day, observed every 19 August, was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008 to honour humanitarian workers who have lost their lives or been injured while engaged in humanitarian service.
The date commemorates the tragic 2003 bombing of the UN headquarters in Baghdad, which killed 22 people, including the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Sérgio Vieira de Mello.
This day serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts and sacrifices made by those who work tirelessly to provide aid and relief in some of the most dangerous and challenging environments around the world.
What Is the Theme for World Humanitarian Day 2024?
The theme for World Humanitarian Day 2024 is #ActForHumanity.
In 2023, humanitarian workers faced the deadliest year on record, and 2024 could prove even worse.
These stark realities reveal a troubling truth: the global community is failing to protect humanitarian workers and, by extension, the vulnerable populations they serve.
Despite the existence of universally accepted international laws designed to regulate armed conflict and minimise its impact, these laws are repeatedly violated without consequence. Civilians, including aid workers, bear the brunt of these transgressions, while those responsible continue to escape justice.
This year, in 2024, World Humanitarian Day efforts will focus on challenging the normalisation of attacks on civilians, including humanitarian workers, and the ongoing impunity under International Humanitarian Law (IHL).
The campaign aims to rally public support to pressure conflict parties and world leaders into taking decisive action to protect civilians and humanitarians in conflict zones. The initiative will also include the release of the latest aid worker security data and trends, alongside global events to demand that those in power #ActForHumanity.
Join the campaign and stand up for those who risk their lives to help others.
Shocking Statistics Show a Lack of Safety for Civilians and Humanitarian Workers
The following are alarming statistics demonstrating the danger that vulnerable civilians and humanitarians face in conflict zones:
- The Humanitarian Access SCORE Report: Gaza - the first six months (March 2024) estimated that more than 30,000 civilian deaths have included over 150 aid workers, an unprecedented number for a single context in such a short period.
- The 2024 Global Humanitarian Overview requires $48.65 billion to assist 186.5 million people in need. As of end of July 2024, reported GHO funding amounts to $12.26 billion or 11 percent less than last year at the same time.
- From OPT to Sudan to Myanmar and beyond, the first half of 2024 was characterised by attacks against health, education and water and sanitation facilities that left millions of people without access to the services they need to survive. (Global Humanitarian Overview 2024)
- In 2023, the number of aid workers killed more than doubled in two years: from 118 in 2022 to 261 in 2023. (OCHA)
- In 2023, 78 aid workers were kidnapped and 196 wounded worldwide. (OCHA)
- In 2023, The overwhelming majority of humanitarian staff killed or injured are national humanitarian workers. (International NGO Safety Organisation)
- Of the aid workers who died, 96% were national staff and 4% were international (expatriate) staff - more than half (47%) were staff of national NGOs.
- Data for 2023 in the Aid Worker Security Database shows that South Sudan has been the most dangerous place for aid workers for several consecutive years. Sudan is a close second (as of 17 August 2013)
What Can You Do to Help Humanitarians on World Humanitarian Day 2024?
World Humanitarian Day is an opportunity for everyone to support the brave individuals working on the front lines of crises worldwide.
Here are a few ways you can make a difference:
1. Raise Awareness
Use your voice on social media to share stories of humanitarian workers and the challenges they face. Spreading awareness helps highlight the critical need for their protection and support.
2. Donate
Contributing to organisations that provide aid in conflict zones can directly support humanitarian efforts— Even small donations can make a significant impact in providing resources and safety for aid workers.
3. Advocate
Contact your local representatives to urge them to support policies that protect humanitarian workers and uphold international humanitarian law. Public pressure can push leaders to take action against violations.
4. Participate in Events
Join or organise events that focus on the importance of humanitarian work. Whether it’s a rally, a community discussion, or an online campaign, your involvement can amplify the call to #ActForHumanity.
5. Educate Yourself and Others
Learn about the challenges humanitarian workers face and the laws meant to protect them. Share this knowledge with others to build a community of informed advocates who support these essential workers.
For more information on how you can get involved this year, click here.
