Emirates Red Crescent Marks World Humanitarian Day With Global Partnerships

The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) marked World Humanitarian Day at its Abu Dhabi headquarters. The event saw participation from several UN humanitarian organisations, local associations, and media institutions. Rashid Mubarak Al Mansouri, Secretary-General of the ERC, highlighted the organisation's commitment to aiding crisis and disaster victims, inspired by the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Al Mansouri emphasised that the ERC's dedication stems from Sheikh Zayed's humanitarian ethos. This commitment imposes significant responsibilities on the ERC to alleviate human suffering amid numerous global challenges. These include severe crises, conflicts, natural disasters related to climate change, poverty, hunger, migration, displacement, and health crises. "These combined events have exacerbated human suffering and led to the emergence of many humanitarian issues and challenges," he noted.

On this global humanitarian occasion, Al Mansouri stressed the importance of recognising the efforts of humanitarian workers and volunteers. "Despite the challenges and obstacles they face in the field, they continue to perform their duties with great dedication and sincerity, striving to reach those in need in the most dangerous and volatile areas, undeterred by the risks surrounding them. They have always been at the heart of the action."

Jamal Nasser Al Suwaider, Executive Director of the News Content Sector at Emirates News Agency (WAM), discussed media's crucial role during crises. He stated that media is essential for transmitting information to and from affected areas during disasters. "It serves as a primary tool for coordinating relief efforts and delivering aid to those in need." Media also helps raise public awareness and mobilise support and resources.

Al Suwaider highlighted that UAE media significantly showcases the country's aid efforts to various nations facing hardships. He noted that UAE's humanitarian aid is a global model that not only provides material assistance but also focuses on building human capabilities through developmental projects aimed at uplifting communities.

Promoting Humanitarian Values

Al Suwaider further emphasised that UAE's humanitarian initiatives convey a message of goodwill and tolerance, earning global appreciation. He pointed out that promoting noble humanitarian values has become integral to UAE’s approach under its wise leadership. This approach offers exemplary models of unity and solidarity for humanity's greater good.

Nader Al-Naqeeb from UNHCR referred to a report released last June on global trends in forced displacement. The report provided key statistics on forcibly displaced people worldwide. Hani Al-Zubaidi, CEO of Make a Wish Foundation UAE, mentioned that their strategy is based on Sheikh Zayed’s legacy of generosity and service to humanity.

Al-Zubaidi praised Sheikh Zayed as a leader who dedicated his life to serving humanity both within UAE and globally. This legacy continues to inspire their foundation’s work today.

The ERC event underscored how Sheikh Zayed’s vision continues to guide UAE’s humanitarian efforts. It highlighted the critical roles played by volunteers, media, and organisations in addressing global humanitarian challenges.

With inputs from WAM