Everything you need to know about World Humanitarian Day 2024

First observed in 2009, World Humanitarian Day takes place annually on August 19 to honor humanitarian workers and promote awareness of humanitarian efforts globally. This day commemorates the 2003 bombing of the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad, which killed 22 people. Among those who lost their lives was Sérgio Vieira de Mello, the UN's High Commissioner for Human Rights. 

Here’s what you need to know about the holiday’s significance and history, how Concern Worldwide is marking World Humanitarian Day 2024, and how you can get involved.

What is the theme for World Humanitarian Day 2024?

The theme for World Humanitarian Day 2024 is #ActForHumanity. #ActForHumanity is a powerful reminder of the importance of the protection and treatment of civilians – including humanitarian workers – during war. 2023 was the deadliest year on record for humanitarian workers, and 2024 has the potential to be even worse. Unfortunately, violations of international laws meant to protect aid workers and civilians in conflict zones occur often. Humanitarian workers, alongside civilians, face unprecedented risks, while violators often escape justice. This year’s theme calls for an end to these acts of violence and the perpetrator’s impunity, urging greater respect for the rules of war and accountability for those in power. 

Why is World Humanitarian Day important?

Humanitarian workers are an integral part of support for those in lower-income countries who suffer disproportionately. With humanitarian workers providing life-saving responses for so many of those affected by crises – war, natural disasters, and emergencies, to name a few – it is imperative that we appreciate their bravery, commitment, and achievements.  

The increasing number of attacks on humanitarian workers and the repeated violations of international laws protecting them demonstrate the need for global awareness and action. In 2023 alone, 591 aid workers were victims of attacks, highlighting the escalating dangers they face. 

World Humanitarian Day is an opportunity for us to recognize the sacrifices and contributions of humanitarian workers who risk their lives to assist others. It's a day to advocate for the safety and security of aid workers and to highlight the importance of humanitarian efforts in alleviating suffering. 

Concern’s approach to security and safety

This year’s theme resonates deeply with Concern mission and values. Our commitment to aiding the most vulnerable populations requires us to ensure the safety and well-being of our staff. World Humanitarian Day aligns with this duty and serves as another reminder for us to be grateful for humanitarian aid workers. Concern prioritizes the safety of our staff, our ability to make a positive impact, and potential security risks. When we decide to begin a new partnership with a country or face challenges, we carefully strategize to ensure we maximize our impact while minimizing risks. Every humanitarian mission we undertake undergoes a thorough cost-benefit analysis. This includes evaluating any potential risks to our staff, the potential impact on the affected communities, and the resources required to execute the mission safely and effectively. Our goal is to provide life-saving assistance to the world’s most vulnerable communities while minimizing risks. 

Precautions and best practices to protect our staff

At Concern Worldwide our humanitarians regularly receive security training and psychological support and counseling for those working in high-stress environments. As an humanitarian organization we regularly run assessments to identify and mitigate risk in volatile situations and establish protocols for emergency situations to ensure an effective response. For World Humanitarian Day we celebrate and honor our team of 4,700 humanitarians working around the world to create the future we imagine, one without extreme poverty.  

How to Celebrate World Humanitarian Day

There are several ways you can observe World Humanitarian Day and support humanitarian efforts: 

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Make an effort to learn more about the challenges faced by humanitarian workers and the people they serve. In light of World Humanitarian Day, share this knowledge with your community to raise awareness. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #ActForHumanity 
2. Use Your Voice to Advocate for Change: Advocate for the protection of humanitarian workers and the enforcement of international laws that safeguard civilians and aid workers in conflict zones. 
3. Support Concern’s Humanitarian Work: Turn your concern into action and support the lifesaving and life-transforming work of organizations like Concern Worldwide. Your contributions help us continue to provide humanitarian programs in 26 countries around the world.

  

Every donation, every dollar, makes a difference in the lives of those affected by conflict, hunger and climate crises. 

Let’s come together this World Humanitarian Day to honor the bravery of humanitarian workers and demand an end to the impunity that allows international law violations to continue. Together, we can #ActForHumanity and make a difference.