World Humanitarian Day

World Humanitarian Day is observed annually on 19 August.

It was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008.

The day commemorates the victims of the Canal Hotel bombing in Baghdad on 19 August 2003, including Sérgio Vieira de Mello, the United Nations Special Representative for Iraq.

It honors humanitarian workers who have lost their lives or been injured while serving others in crises and conflicts.

The day also recognizes the dedication of humanitarian personnel worldwide and promotes global support for humanitarian action and assistance to people affected by armed conflicts, natural disasters, and other emergencies.