World Humanitarian Day 2024: History & Significance

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World Humanitarian Day

Every year World Humanitarian Day is celebrated on 19 August. This day recognises the crucial work of humanitarians around the world in making this world a better place for all. It raises awareness about people affected by global crises and those brave hands who come forward to help them. Love, humanity and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. A kind word, a helpful hand and a shoulder to rely on is all one needs in tough times. Dedicating your entire life to the welfare of those in tough situations takes courage and genuine altruism, that is why humanitarians are called true heroes!

Name of the dayWorld Humanitarian Day
Observed on19 August
Reason To honour the bravery of humanitarian workers who risk their lives to help others.

History of World Humanitarian Day

Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty. Here is the historical background of this important day.

  • It was designated in memory of the 19 August 2003 bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq.
  • This deadly attack killed 22 people, including the chief humanitarian in Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello.
  • Five years later in 2009, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated August 19 as World Humanitarian Day.

The day was established due to the great efforts of the Sérgio Vieira de Mello Foundation and his family. They worked closely with the Ambassadors of France, Switzerland, Japan and Brazil to steer the draft Resolution through the General Assembly. 

Also Read: Human Rights Day- History, Theme, Importance

What is the Theme of World Humanitarian Day in 2024?

In 2023, the Mid-Year update of the Global Humanitarian Needs Overview estimated that over 362 million people on our planet need humanitarian help. Every year our world unites to celebrate Humanitarian Day with a specific theme.

The theme of the 2023 campaign was #NoMatterWhat. It highlighted the need to deliver life-saving assistance the help people despite the circumstances. The official theme of 2024 is not available yet. We will update it here as soon as the official sources release it for the general public.

Source: Navyansh Art

What is the Significance of Humanitarian Day?

World Humanitarian Day aims to remind people across the globe about the crucial role of humanitarian workers. Here are a few other important points reflecting the significance of this day:

  • It recognizes the dedication and hard work of humanitarian workers who extend their helping hands to people in need. 
  • The day raises awareness about the different challenges faced by humanitarian workers who often work in dangerous environments. 
  • It encourages organizations and governments to contribute resources and extend their support to support humanitarian efforts.
  • It also encourages individuals to acknowledge their individual and collective responsibility to help those in crisis.

Also Read: World Population Day 2024: History, Theme, Significance

Source: Art Gvg

How to Celebrate World Humanitarian Day?

Here are the different ways to celebrate this day and increase awareness among your family and friends.

  • First and foremost, learn about the crises happening around the world and the role of humanitarian workers in resolving them. 
  • Tell your friends and family about Humanitarian Day by spreading awareness.
  • Take your celebrations online by sharing posts, videos, and tweets related to this day. 
  • Provide aid to organisations that help with a humanitarian cause.
  • Participate in events with your friends and family to generate funds and raise awareness.
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FAQs

What is the purpose of World Humanitarian Day?

World Humanitarian Day takes place every 19 August. It raises awareness about humanitarians and their important role around the world. 

How do you celebrate World Humanitarian Day?

You can celebrate World Humanitarian Day by attending local events, learning more about the day, reading related books and articles, and sharing your knowledge with others.

When do we celebrate World Humanitarian Day?

We celebrate World Humanitarian Day every year on August 19.  

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