Campaigns

In support of humanitarian efforts, UN personnel and partners display signs to raise awareness about the critical need to protect those on the frontlines of crisis and conflict

In honour of World Humanitarian Day, UN personnel and partners gathered at the UN headquarters in New York to show solidarity for the protection of civilians and aid workers, highlighting the urgent need for increased safety measures in conflict zones. Photo: OCHA/Paolo Palmero

World Humanitarian Day: August 19

On 19 August 2003, a bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, killed 22 humanitarian aid workers, including the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello. Five years later, the General Assembly adopted a resolution designating 19 August as World Humanitarian Day (WHD).

Each year, WHD focuses on a theme, bringing together partners from across the humanitarian system to advocate for the survival, well-being and dignity of people affected by crises, and for the safety and security of aid workers.

This year, we call for an end to the attacks on humanitarians and civilians and impunity under International Humanitarian Law. We urge those in power to #ActForHumanity.

WHD is a campaign by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and humanitarian partners.

Visit the World Humanitarian Day website