World Humanitarian Day 2020: In Celebration of Real Life Heroes
On World Humanitarian Day (WHD) August 19, we honor the services rendered by humanitarian workers as well as celebrate their efforts in making our world a better place. This is an occasion for us to commemorate those who lost lives or were injured in the course of their work, and to honour their dedication, despite the odds, to provide life-saving support and protection to people most in need.
2020 marks a significant year for humanitarians around the world with the coronavirus pandemic unleashing much disruption in the lives of those living in over 180 countries where more than 21 million people have thus far contracted the virus. In a way, the pandemic brought to light, the humanitarian qualities in most of us, with not only national Governments taking initiative in providing relief response but also Private Sector entities rising to the occasion during this crucial period. As we recognize the monumental efforts of the health sector and frontline workers, World Humanitarian Day is an opportunity to remember the collaborative efforts of all sectors as well as the commitments made by all citizens in general in occupying themselves during difficult times and in uplifting the lives of others.
As an extension to World Humanitarian Day, The United Nations coined the term “RealLifeHeroes” with the aim of raising awareness on a global campaign that celebrates humanitarians and as a “thank you” to the people who have committed their lives to helping others.
On behalf of A-PAD Sri Lanka, we offer our respect and salute our real life heroes and all those who are undaunted by the calamities of disasters, unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic. A year where humanity prevailed across all sectors and people.
