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World Humanitarian Day
August 19 has been chosen as World Humanitarian Day.
Created in the wake of a human tragedy and celebrated every year on August 19, Humanitarian Aid Day reminds us of the indispensable role played daily by the various humanitarian actors in helping the most vulnerable populations.
State of the art.
What is World Humanitarian Day?
World Humanitarian Day commemorates the tireless efforts of humanitarian workers around the world. The day aims to raise public awareness of the challenges these professionals face, often in extremely dangerous conditions.
It also highlights the needs of populations affected by humanitarian crises, whether caused by conflict, natural disaster or epidemic.
One of the aims of August 19 is also tomobilize governments, national and international organizations and citizens to support humanitarian action and promote international solidarity.
World Humanitarian Day is also an opportunity to encourage humanitarian commitment around the world, and underline the imperative need to respect International Humanitarian Law (IHL) to protect civilians and humanitarian workers in the event of conflict.
What actions are carried out in support of World Humanitarian Day?
The day is marked by numerous initiatives around the world. United Nations agencies, international NGOs and local associations are conducting public awareness campaigns, commemorative events and fundraising campaigns.
These actions aim to pay tribute to the too many humanitarian workers who have lost their lives, and to strengthen humanitarian support for those who continue to risk their lives to save the lives of others.
Here are just a few examples:
- Conferences and forums with experts who share their experiences and discuss current challenges in the humanitarian field, particularly the response tohumanitarian emergencies.
- Digital campaigns are deployed on social networks to reach a wider audience and, in turn, encourage donations, which are often essential for funding humanitarian aid.
- Commemorations are held in honor of humanitarian workers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, reminding us of the importance of protecting civilians and the need for continued humanitarian commitment.
When is World Humanitarian Day?
World Humanitarian Day is celebrated every year on August 19. The date was chosen in memory of the bomb attack on the UN headquarters in Baghdad in 2003, which claimed the lives of 22 people, including the UN Special Representative in Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello. Since its creation in 2008 by the UN General Assembly, this day has become a key moment to draw attention to the dangers faced by humanitarian workers and the importance of humanitarian assistance worldwide.
Recent editions of World Humanitarian Day have focused on themes such as :
- “Whatever happens” for the 2023 edition,
- “#ILFAUTTOUTUNVILLAGE” in 2022,
- “In the race against the climate crisis” for the 2021 edition,
What can you do to mark World Humanitarian Day?
There are many ways to contribute and take part in World Humanitarian Day.
Citizens can take part in local events, make donations to NGOs or use social networks to raise awareness of the causes supported and highlighted on this day. They can also launch fund-raising campaigns, or make a practical commitment by becoming a volunteer with an association such as La Chaîne de l’Espoir.
