World Humanitarian Day Calls Attention to Aid Workers in Conflict Areas

New York, NY—Global humanitarian organization Action Against Hunger recognizes the first World Humanitarian Day today, designated by the United Nations to focus attention on aid workers providing relief in areas marred by violence. Humanitarian staff working in conflict zones have come under increased attack by armed groups in recent years, with grave implications for their personal safety and for the well-being of the millions of people around the world who rely on them for survival. The United Nations dedicates this day to the memory of all aid workers who have lost their lives while providing assistance to others.

“We pay tribute to the extraordinary courage and dedication of aid workers living in some of the world’s most dangerous environments,” said Nan Dale, Executive Director of Action Against Hunger. “We honor their sacrifices by upholding the fundamental principle of providing impartial humanitarian relief to people in need.”

Today marks the sixth anniversary of the bombing of the United Nations compound in Baghdad, which killed 22 humanitarian workers, including Sergio Vieira de Mello, the Secretary General’s Special Representative in Iraq.