Honouring Courage on World Humanitarian Day
This World Humanitarian Day is unlike any other. The world is facing more crises, fuelled by conflict, climate change, and inequality, than ever before. Humanitarian workers, the vast majority of whom are local actors from the affected communities, are on the front lines, risking their lives to bring emergency services to people in need. The dangers they face are real. 2023 went down in history as the deadliest on record for humanitarian workers, and 2024 is on track to be even more lethal.
So far, 192 humanitarian workers have been killed in 2024, 119 of whom were local staff. At least 278 aid workers have been killed in Gaza since the October 7 assault in Israel, according to the UN.
Today, on World Humanitarian Day, we want to honour humanitarian workers worldwide by taking you beyond the crises to spotlight the courageous people on the front lines.
Ghada’s Journey in Gaza
The situation:
In Gaza, Ghada’s role has transformed dramatically. Before the war, she documented stories of hope and progress in her community, highlighting their achievements and dreams. Now, her work focuses on exposing the despair and injustice that war has wrought amidst the devastation—broken infrastructure, pervasive sewage, and relentless drone surveillance—Ghada witnesses heart-wrenching suffering. "What is most heartbreaking are the people I see, adults and children alike, who have lost their limbs and are forced to walk on just one limb due to the war," Ghada shares. Despite this, she holds onto hope for a ceasefire and a future where Gaza can be rebuilt.
Rose’s Efforts in South Sudan
Rose is an Oxfam water engineer in Renk, South Sudan. She has led efforts to establish access to clean water and latrines, focusing on the needs of women and children. Her work is crucial in preventing disease and providing safety in challenging conditions. In a country where less than 10% of women can read, Rose stands out as a source of inspiration. "These camps may have been temporary in the beginning, but the needs are evolving. We’re pivoting plans to ensure the safety and well-being of these vulnerable women and children," she says.
Ghada and Rose are an inspiration. They remind us that a just and fair world are built day after day with kindness, generosity and bravery.
On this World Humanitarian Day, we thank all humanitarian workers everywhere and pledge to continue to support their fight to provide life-saving aid in the world’s darkest and most dangerous places.
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Photo: Peter Caton/Oxfam
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