World Humanitarian Day

19th August 2022

World Humanitarian Day was established by the United Nations (UN) in 2009 to recognize and honour the efforts of humanitarian aid workers all over the world. Originally, the occasion was set to commemorate the lost lives of twenty-two UN aid workers in the bombing of the UN Baghdad headquarters in 2003.  In the recent outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the whole world has grown even more appreciative of these workers’ contributions as they worked tirelessly to keep up with the growing demand in healthcare and social support. Humanitarian aid is also crucial in conflict zones or areas impacted by natural disasters.

As per the definition set by the UN itself, “a humanitarian engages actively in promoting social reforms and human welfare and holds no prejudice with human suffering on grounds of religion, sexual orientation, gender, or territory”.

How can you play your part on World Humanitarian Day?

• Donate to a Humanitarian Organization: Financial support goes a long way in supplementing workers' resources to help suffering communities. In Malta, you can donate to the Migrant Offshore Aid Station (MOAS), Solidarity Overseas Service (SOS) Malta, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Malta, Malta Red Cross, Migrant Women Association Malta and more. There are also a number of global organizations you can donate to.

• Volunteer for Humanitarian Aid in your Community: You do not necessarily need to travel to a war zone to provide humanitarian aid. As we like to say, charity begins at home, so have a look at opportunities for volunteering at your local humanitarian aid organizations. For instance, the Malta Red Cross are always looking for volunteers in first aid, emergency response, administration, psychological support, and maintenance, amongst other things. In turn, one can expand their skills portfolio and make new friends! The MOAS is also always on the look out for volunteers in fundraising events, or even interns who would like to gain experience in humanitarian aid.

• Help Spread the Word: Spreading awareness is key in bringing the message set forth by this day to light. Educate your friends, family, and colleagues about the importance of humanitarian aid and how they too can help. Voice your support for humanitarian initiatives you believe in to encourage others to do the same.

Global facts to consider:

• Millions of people go to bed hungry every night.
• Over 2 billion people do not have access to sanitary water in their homes.
• Millions of people are displaced.
• 204 million people were affected by natural disasters in 2016.
• Millions of girls are not in school.

A wide variety of quality ingredients are available from Arkadia supermarkets in Malta and Gozo, including Arkadia FoodExpress Swatar and Arkadia Food Market Valletta.

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