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On the fateful afternoon of August 19, 2003, an explosion tore through a hotel in Baghdad, Iraq. Infamously known as the Canal Hotel bombing, the incident claimed 22 souls, including Sergio Vieira de Mello, the United Nations’ Special Representative in Iraq. In the aftermath of the bombing, de Mello’s family along with the Sergio Vieira de Mello Foundation worked relentlessly to have August 19 recognized as a remembrance day for all humanitarian personnel and the ones who have made the ultimate sacrifice for humanitarian causes.
World Humanitarian Day
The first World Humanitarian Day was commemorated on August 19, 2009, with subsequent years focusing on a particular theme dedicated to the work and achievements of humanitarian workers around the globe. This year, the theme is #TheHumanRace. The theme draws attention to the plight of humanity and the terrible cost of human lives due to the climate crisis and calls upon world leaders to act on behalf of the most vulnerable populations of the world.
Other than the climate crisis, the global pandemic which is in its second year also warrants attention as countless lives have been negatively affected. Humanitarian personnel was fully involved in tackling the health crisis that followed the outbreak of COVID-19. They became the actual boots on the ground that grappled with deadly viruses that caused millions of fatalities. While dispensing their duties, many of these humanitarian ‘heroes’ made the ultimate sacrifice. As we celebrate World Humanitarian Day, these frontline warriors should be rightfully shown the respect and appreciation they deserve.
The pandemic also showed the world how CSR played a very important role. As corporates made huge donations and launched initiatives to combat the worsening health crisis that threaten to destabilize the world, humanitarian personnel and organizations got to work. Their self-less attitudes allowed for much of the aid kits to reach the needy.
Humanitarianism has no religion. Humanitarian workers give ceaselessly and selflessly every passing day. More often than not, much of their work goes unnoticed. But come August 19 each year, their sacrifices are remembered and celebrated. Although these heroes expect little in return for what they do, a little appreciation goes a long way. So, let humanity take precedence on this auspicious day as we celebrate #TheHumanRace and observe World Humanitarian Day 2021.
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