World Humanitarian Day 2025: UN Calls for Protection of Aid Workers

August 19, 2025 | 10:40 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – On World Humanitarian Day 2025, the United Nations is honoring the courage of humanitarian workers and calling for urgent action to protect aid workers and civilians in conflict zones. The theme for this year, #ActForHumanity, emphasizes the critical need to uphold international humanitarian laws and safeguard those who risk their lives to deliver aid.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlighted the dire situation, stating, "Humanitarian workers are the last lifeline for over 300 million people [worldwide] caught in conflict or disaster. Yet, funding for that lifeline is drying up. And those who provide humanitarian aid are increasingly under attack."

He emphasized that international law is clear: "Humanitarians must be respected and protected. They can never be targeted."

The violence against aid workers has reached unprecedented levels. The year 2023 was the deadliest on record, with 420 aid workers killed, a staggering 169% increase from 2022. This dangerous trend has continued into 2025, with 844 aid workers killed as of August 17 since the start of last year, underscoring the escalating risks faced by those on the frontlines of crises.

"The normalization of violence against aid workers is both unacceptable and threatens the very foundation of humanitarian work to reach those in desperate need," said Thandie Mwape, Head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Indonesia.

"On this World Humanitarian Day, we honour the memory of those who have paid the ultimate price in service to humanity. We also applaud Indonesia for the safe place it offers and for its role in defending human rights on the global stage," she added.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has become the deadliest place for aid workers, with over 250 killed since October 2023. Additionally, extreme violence in Sudan and South Sudan continues to contribute to the grim toll.

Global and Local Action

This year's World Humanitarian Day is marked by a global digital campaign under the hashtag #ActForHumanity. A short film holding world leaders and conflict parties accountable will be launched, along with social media activations highlighting the consequences of violating international humanitarian laws.

In Jakarta, the UN and various humanitarian organizations will host a "Humanitarian Night" at Pos Bloc, Central Jakarta, on August 22. The event will feature cultural performances, a talk show, music, and exhibitions showcasing the work of various humanitarian groups.

Hassan Mohtashami, UNFPA Representative in Indonesia, noted that "In a world where humanitarian principles are under attack, Indonesia’s collaborative/gotongroyong spirit offers hope."

He added that the partnership between the government and civil society is a local response to the global call to #ActForHumanity, ensuring women and girls are at the heart of building a resilient Indonesia.

World Humanitarian Day serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for humanity, pursuing justice, and upholding the essential principles that guide humanitarian efforts worldwide.

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