The third World Humanitarian Day

On August 19^th, the United Nations will mark the third World Humanitarian Day. It commemorates the memory of those who lost their lives in humanitarian service and pays tribute to those who continue their efforts in bringing assistance and relief to millions in needs.

It was first designated by the sixty-third session of the UN General Assembly after a brutal terrorist attack on UN headquarters in Baghdad in 2003, which killed 22 humanitarian aid workers, including the UN diplomat and hero of peace, Sérgio Vieira de Mello.

The Day also aims to raise awareness on the increasing needs for humanitarian aid worldwide and the importance of international cooperation. Special attention should be drawn to the 12 million people suffering from famine in the Horn of Africa as it is the worst humanitarian crisis in today’s world.

On August 19^th, the United Nations will be joining over 500 national and international NGOs at events around the world to tell the story of humanitarian aid workers communities and to inspire the general public to learn more and get involved.

Everyone is encouraged to step in and take action to create a better world. In observance of the World Humanitarian day 2011, a contest allows anybody to pitch ideas to the UN Secretary Ban Ki-Moon. The winner will get the chance to win a trip to New York and meet the world body’s leader. For more information, visit www.uncitizenambassadors.org