New Delhi, August 19: The world is observing ‘World Humanitarian Day’ today. On this occasion, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged people to stand up for humanitarian workers. He emphasized that attacks on these workers are illegal and called for immediate action to support humanity.
In a video message, Guterres stated, “On World Humanitarian Day, we honor the dedicated individuals who provide life-saving assistance to millions in need.”
He pointed out the alarming reality that serving others has become more dangerous than ever. Over the past three years, more than a thousand humanitarian workers have lost their lives, the majority of whom were local staff helping their own communities.
Guterres highlighted that countless individuals have narrowly escaped incidents of gunfire, shelling, bombing, abduction, or sexual violence. Attacks on schools and hospitals are increasing, and new warfare tools, such as armed drones, are creating additional threats. This situation is also eroding trust, as funding for humanitarian efforts is being cut, and access to aid is being obstructed. Convoys delivering assistance are often halted, and workers providing help face threats, arrests, and detention, leaving those in dire need without support.
He reiterated that attacks on humanitarian workers are illegal and have devastating consequences for families struggling to survive, children waiting for food, and patients in urgent need of care.
Guterres stressed the need for immediate action. He stated, “It is essential to respect the rule of law, ensure safe access, hold perpetrators accountable, and provide adequate resources. Humanitarian workers stand for those in need. We must stand for them. We need to act for humanity now.”
The United Nations has themed World Humanitarian Day 2026 as ‘Act for Humanity’ and has called on people to join this initiative. The UN encourages citizens to demand the protection of humanitarian workers using the hashtag ‘Act for Humanity.’
The organization has requested support for humanitarian efforts, respect for international humanitarian law, credible investigations and accountability for violations, and to pay tribute to fallen humanitarian workers while standing in solidarity with their families, colleagues, and communities.
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