World Humanitarian Day, observed on August 19, is dedicated to honoring the selfless work of humanitarian aid workers and the role they play in tackling the critical humanitarian issues affecting people around the world. Introduced by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008, the day marks the anniversary of the 2003 bombing of the UN headquarters in Baghdad, which tragically killed 22 individuals, including UN Special Representative Sergio Vieira de Mello. This commemoration serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those working in dangerous and challenging conditions, and it honors their commitment to providing aid and support for communities in need.

The day draws attention to ongoing humanitarian crises, and it advocates for greater international solidarity and action. Through campaigns and events, World Humanitarian Day seeks to foster a deeper understanding of the issues faced by affected populations and the humanitarian workers who serve them. It is a time to reflect on the importance of humanitarian principles such as neutrality, impartiality, and independence, and to support efforts that improve the lives of the world's most vulnerable people.

This year, this occasion is observed in times of hardship faced in the world at large and the Eastern Mediterranean Region, in particular. We live in times in which humanitarian workers risk their lives amidst natural and manmade emergencies to provide basic aid to citizens deprived of their basic right to health, shelter, and safety.

 Amidst the war on Gaza, the armed conflicts seen in Sudan, the floods of Afghanistan, and other emergencies seen in Yemen, Morocco, and other parts of the region, healthcare systems have been severely impacted. The WHO's Global Health Estimates for 2022 highlight that the region faces one of the highest burdens of health emergencies globally. These emergencies led to outbreaks of diseases like cholera and measles, and the displacement of populations further aggravates the situation.

On this occasion, let us salute the efforts humanitarian organizations are making to work tirelessly to provide essential services, including medical care, food, and shelter.

However, the need for such services continues to increase, and the risks that humanitarian workers endure remain high. We have seen how aid workers have been attacked, yet they continue to risk their lives day by day to serve humanity.

On this day, we, at EMPHNET, reiterate our admiration for humanitarian workers on the ground and we commit to being there with them on the frontlines. We will continue to offer our support, and to contribute to the work that they do. Within our role as a regional public health network, we affirm our commitment to elevating the reach and quality of humanitarian work, as doing so brings us closer to realizing our vision for healthier communities. We will continue to work towards ensuring the wellbeing of the people in our region and the world at large. We will continue to support acts for humanity!