World Humanitarian Day
On the occasion of World Humanitarian Day, we honor humanitarian aid workers who have sacrificed so much to protect and help the world's most vulnerable populations. We commend the courage and kindness of those who put the safety of others before their own. We are grateful to the humanitarians around the world who continue to work in harsh environments, often at great risk to their lives. For the world's vulnerable people, the onslaught of humanitarian crises has been compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, climate crises, insurgencies and civil war. Humanitarians have ensured access to health and the effects of hunger, gender-based violence, mental health problems, and other challenges that disproportionately affect displaced and marginalized communities. Human workers are vital people who provide hope, often in the most dire of circumstances, and the world needs them now more than ever.Tragically, global humanitarian crises are increasing. Conflicts and natural disasters have forced large numbers of people to flee their historic homes. Humanitarian workers have been targeted for violence or killed, even while providing life support. They work very dangerous - and essential work.The United States is the world's largest single humanitarian donor. Last year, through the generosity of the American people, we provided nearly $13 billion in protective services, food, shelter, care, education, safe drinking water, and sanitation to those in need. This aid has helped millions of crisis-affected people around the world.The United States is dedicated to solving humanitarian crises through coordinated international responses. We encourage other countries to contribute to meeting global humanitarian needs. We call for immediate, secure and expeditious access for humanitarian actors to vulnerable populations, even across conflict lines, so that they can deliver aid and services without hindrance. The United States will support vital humanitarian work carried out every day around the world. We are proud to recognize the dedicated humanitarian aid workers.
