The U.S. State Department, headed by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and United Nation’s Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon marked World Humanitarian Day by recognizing and praising aid workers for their tireless efforts to help those who have lived through wars, catastrophes and other terrible events.
This year’s commemoration of World Humanitarian Day follows the vicious murder of ten international medical volunteers in Afghanistan earlier this month. Last year, 102 humanitarian workers lost their lives. In addition, nearly 280 aid workers were victims of security incidents, more the quadruple the number a decade ago.
Providing humanitarian aid to help rebuild lives is a core commitment of the United States. Relief workers embody the universal truth that we are at our best when we come together to help the most vulnerable among us. Time and again, this ideal puts humanitarian workers on the front lines of crises, from the earthquake in Haiti to the floods in Pakistan or any of the conflicts that dot the globe.
For their selflessness, their courage, and their sacrifice, they have our deepest admiration and respect. The United States is fully committed to doing everything it can to provide for their safety and security, and to give them the tools they need to continue their indispensable mission on everyone’s behalf.
