World Humanitarian Day: Theme, history, significance and all you need to know

Every year, world humanitarian day is celebrated on August 19, the aim behind the day is to value all humanitarians.

World-Humanitarian-Day humanitarian-day August-19

The United Nations has devoted a special day to appreciate the humanitarian, the day is called the world humanitarian day and is celebrated on August 19, 2021. The day is celebrated to honor the humanitarian and to remember those who have lost their lives while doing human welfare. 


World Humanitarian Day 2021: Theme

Every year, this day is celebrated under a specific theme, which is selected by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. The theme is selected by keeping any cause or crisis in mind. 

Also Read: World Photography Day 2021: Know the History And Significance of this day

This year’s theme concentrates on the climate crisis in the world, the theme is “#TheHumanRace: a global challenge for climate action in solidarity with people who need it the most.” According to the official website of the World Health Organisation (WHO) climate crisis is the main threat faced by human health. The WHO website read, “This year's World Humanitarian Day (19 August 2021) is devoted to dealing with the climate crisis, the single biggest health threat facing humanity. This day is a crucial milestone in the lead-up to the COP26 summit in November when leaders from 196 countries will meet to agree on action to get climate change under control. As the world witnesses record-breaking heatwaves, catastrophic storms, and changing weather patterns - it is fitting that the theme of World Humanitarian Day should be the climate crisis.”


World Humanitarian Day 2021: History

The day was designated to remember and honor the Chief Humanitarian in Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello, and 22 others, who were killed in the 19 August 2003 bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq. The United Nation marked the day in the year 2009.  

Also Read: Explained: What can be expected from UN's landmark climate change report?


World Humanitarian Day 2021: How to get involved?

To join the challenge, run, ride, swim, walk or do any activity of your choice to take part in #TheHumanRace on Strava for around 100 minutes between 16 and 31 August to demand climate action. Every minute of activity counts towards carrying our message to world leaders at COP26 in November. 

You may also add your name to join #TheHumanRace so we (the world) can let leaders know that we’re all in this together and that the leaders must keep their promise of $100 billion annually for climate action for the world’s most vulnerable people.

One can also get involved by using hashtags – “#theHumanRace” and “#WorldHumantarianDay,” on social media. You can ask your followers to join the thread and you may also contact social media influencers to raise awareness on the issue on their timelines.  


Trending