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World Humanitarian Day is observed on August 19 every year to honour humanitarians around the world who strive to meet ever-growing global needs.

No matter the danger or the hardship, humanitarians venture deep into disaster-stricken regions and on the front lines of conflict, strive to save and protect people in need, UN reports.

On 19 August 2003, a bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, killed 22 humanitarian aid workers, including the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello. Five years later, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution designating 19 August as World Humanitarian Day (WHD).

Each year, WHD focuses on a theme, bringing together partners from across the humanitarian system to advocate for the survival, well-being and dignity of people affected by crises, and for the safety and security of aid workers.

The theme for World Humanitarian Day 2023 is "No matter what". It focuses on showcasing the importance, effectiveness and positive impact of humanitarian work around the world.