Dubai Marks World Humanitarian Day In Solidarity With Global Humanitarian Workers

Dubai Humanitarian, in partnership with the UN Resident Coordinator office, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA), and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai (IACAD), commemorated World Humanitarian Day. This event aimed to show solidarity with those affected by humanitarian crises and honour the workers aiding them.

The gathering included over 100 leaders from the humanitarian sector, celebrating the bravery and personal experiences of both national and international humanitarians. Giuseppe Saba, CEO and Board Member of Dubai Humanitarian, opened the event by highlighting the importance of collaboration in tackling global challenges faced by humanitarian workers.

In his speech, Saba stated, "At Dubai Humanitarian, we stand with the humanitarian colleagues and their families as they dedicate their lives to supporting the vulnerable populations. Today, we honour their courage and determination. Unfortunately, the list of humanitarian workers who lost their lives in providing humanitarian assistance is continuously increasing, and it is a collective responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being as they carry out their critical work. Never should they be a target."

Bérangère Boël, UN Resident Coordinator in UAE, expressed pride in working alongside the UAE through Dubai Humanitarian. She remarked, "The United Nations is proud to work hand in hand with the UAE through Dubai Humanitarian to contribute to humanitarian action across the globe. The UAE’s spirit of generosity and commitment to humanitarian principles lies at the heart of what World Humanitarian Day stands for—solidarity, compassion, and action."

Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director-General of IACAD in Dubai, emphasized that World Humanitarian Day transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. He noted that current global conditions necessitate collective efforts from various sectors to support humanitarian work.

Al Muhairi said, "On World Humanitarian Day, a day whose values and meanings transcend geographical, cultural, and religious boundaries, just as the suffering of those in need around the world surpasses them, the wise leadership emphasizes the necessity of collective efforts from individuals, governments, international organizations, and civil society to support humanitarian work and enhance its role in achieving sustainable development. This is especially important given the current global conditions and the natural disasters and humanitarian crises we are witnessing."

Recognising Selfless Contributions

Sajeda Shawa from UN OCHA UAE highlighted that August 19th is a day to honour humanitarian workers' dedication worldwide. She said that this day reaffirms commitment to supporting these efforts.

Shawa stated: "On World Humanitarian Day, observed annually on August 19th, we honor the dedication and bravery of humanitarian workers worldwide. On this day we reaffirm our commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts and to recognize the selfless contributions of those who work to alleviate suffering and restore hope in the most challenging circumstances."

Protecting Aid Workers

The agenda included a session focused on protecting humanitarian workers. Participants from various organisations like International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies shared field experiences.

The attendees agreed on urgent collective action by agencies and governments to protect aid workers' lives. They stressed that these workers should never be targets.

The Department of Islamic Affairs extended respect towards all working in this field within UAE. They acknowledged these unsung heroes promoting peace among peoples.

The event underscored UAE's leading role in global humanitarian efforts. It highlighted how UAE's vision extends beyond donations to active participation in conflict areas where aid is crucial for saving lives.

With inputs from WAM