IOM Kuwait highlights challenges and resilience on World Humanitarian Day
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations Migration Agency in Kuwait, joined the global community in observing World Humanitarian Day today, honoring humanitarian workers who risk their lives to provide aid and protection to those in need.
Observed annually on 19 August, the Day pays tribute to aid and health workers who have been killed or injured in the line of duty, while highlighting the effectiveness and impact of humanitarian efforts worldwide.
This year, humanitarian systems face unprecedented challenges. According to the Global Humanitarian Overview, around 300 million people worldwide require urgent assistance and protection due to escalating crises driven by conflict, climate change, poverty, and instability.
At the same time, global funding for humanitarian operations has been drastically reduced, forcing agencies to scale back life-saving interventions. Aid workers face the “cruel math” of doing less with less, even as needs continue to rise.
Humanitarian personnel confront not only operational challenges but also rising psychological stress, including burnout. In 2024, 377 humanitarian workers were killed across 20 countries, with over 95% being local staff.
As of July 2025, at least 227 humanitarian workers have been killed, with Gaza remaining the deadliest location, where 90% of the population—around 1.9 million people—have been displaced, more than half of whom are children.
Other high-risk areas include:
- Sudan: Active hostilities and bureaucratic impediments hinder operations.
- Ukraine: Restricted humanitarian access.
- Haiti: Gang violence and political instability disrupt aid delivery.
- Democratic Republic of Congo: Armed group activity threatens convoys and facilities.
- Yemen: Arbitrary detentions and escalating violence limit interventions to life-saving activities.
- Syria (As-Sweida): Hostilities have displaced over 176,000 people, with humanitarian access constrained by insecurity and attacks on healthcare facilities.
“This year’s theme, ‘ActForHumanity,’ reminds us that humanitarian action must be inclusive, accountable, and responsive to those we serve,” said Mazen AboulHosn, Chief of Mission at IOM Kuwait.
He emphasized that despite growing pressures and resource limitations, local responders and international partners continue to deliver life-saving assistance with unwavering dedication. Kuwait’s support, including its recent grant to IOM operations in Yemen, exemplifies the solidarity needed to maintain effective humanitarian work.
As World Humanitarian Day is commemorated, IOM Kuwait urges governments, civil society, the private sector, and individuals to reaffirm their commitment to humanity.
Solidarity is more than a principle—it is a lifeline. By investing in long-term solutions, amplifying local leadership, and addressing humanitarian needs, the courage of aid workers and the resilience of local communities can be honored and supported.
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