From the ‘big’ ones, like Nepal, to the emergencies that the world often forgets, like Central African Republic, across the world today there are ordinary people, carrying out extraordinary duties.

August 19, World Humanitarian Day, recognises those who face danger and adversity in order to improve the lives of others. It is a day to commemorate those who have lost their lives in humanitarian service, and celebrate the spirit that inspires humanitarian work.

The day was designated by the General Assembly to coincide with the anniversary of the 2003 bombing of the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq which killed 22 people.

On World Humanitarian Day 2015, we recognise, appreciate and thank the local and international, official and unofficial, professional, voluntary and impromptu humanitarians across the world who risk their lives to ease the suffering of others.