World Humanitarian Day is an annual event that is celebrated on August 19 dedicated to honouring humanitarian workers and raising awareness about humanitarian issues around the world. The international day is dedicated to recognizing humanitarian personnel and those who have died working for humanitarian causes. World Humanitarian Day marks the day on which the then Special Representative of the Secretary-General to Iraq, Sérgio Vieira de Mello and 21 of his colleagues were killed in the bombing of the UN Headquarters in Baghdad. Every year, World Humanitarian Day focuses on a theme, bringing together partners from across the humanitarian system. This year, the celebrations will revolve around the importance, effectiveness and positive impact of humanitarian work.

World Humanitarian Day 2023 Date

World Humanitarian Day 2023 will be celebrated on Saturday, August 19.

World Humanitarian Day History

World Humanitarian Day was commemorated for the first time on August 19, 2009. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008 to commemorate the tragic bombing of the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq, in 2003. As per historical records, the bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad killed 22 humanitarian aid workers, including the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello.

Five years later in 2008, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution designating August 19 as World Humanitarian Day (WHD). It was designated by the UNGA as part of a Swedish-sponsored GA Resolution A/63/L.49 on the Strengthening of the Coordination of Emergency Assistance of the United Nations.

World Humanitarian Day Significance

World Humanitarian Day is an important celebration that honours the bravery, dedication, and selflessness of humanitarian workers around the globe. The day highlights the work done by humanitarian organizations and individuals who provide assistance, relief, and support to people in need. Humanitarians include aid workers, medical personnel, volunteers, and others who dedicate their time and efforts to helping those affected by conflicts, natural disasters, and other emergencies. On this day every year, people across the world come together to honour humanitarians who strive to meet ever-growing global needs.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 19, 2023 09:41 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).