World Humanitarian Day | 20 Aug 2025

Why in News? 

On August 19th, World Humanitarian Day is observed to recognize the dedicated efforts of those who risk their lives to assist others in times of crisis. It also serves as a day to show support for the millions of people whose lives are endangered due to conflict and disasters. 

Key Points 

• About: World Humanitarian Day, led by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), advocates for the well-being, dignity, and survival of people affected by crises, as well as the safety of humanitarian workers. 
• History: On 19th August 2003, a bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad killed 22 humanitarian aid workers, including Sergio Vieira de Mello, the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq.  
  • In his honor, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution to designate this day as World Humanitarian Day (WHD). 
• Theme: This year's theme calls for ending attacks on humanitarians and civilians and ending impunity under International Humanitarian Law, urging those in power to #ActForHumanity. 
  • The #ActForHumanity campaign with a call for: 
    • Protection of humanitarian workers and the civilians they serve 
    • Upholding international humanitarian law 
    • Funding the vital lifelines that humanitarian aid provides