In the world today, almost 60 million people have been displaced by war. 19 million have fled their countries of origin in the hopes of a better life. Almost 40 million remain, subject to daily risks, and continuing to live with the trauma of life on the front lines. It is not just conflict that creates refugees
Good World Humanitarian Day #WorldHumanitarianDay!
— Helpfreely.org NO (@HelpfreelyNO) August 19, 2015
Thanks to all you faithful and generous supporters who make our work possible #WorldHumanitarianDay pic.twitter.com/Efy7PujceR
— Children on the Edge (@cote_uk) August 19, 2015
It was estimated that in 2013, more people were displaced by natural disasters and climactic conditions than war, at a staggering 22 million. Astonishingly, related issues led to the displacement of 36 million in 2008. Global poverty has soared to 1.5 billion, and a further 800 million risk slipping below the line. In times like these, humanitarian organisations and workers are needed more than ever. Today is World Humanitarian Day, and the internet has been paying tribute to those who place themselves in danger in order to help make the world a better place.
#WorldHumanitarianDay Thanks to all Humanitarian Aid workers who helped #Nepal for recovery & relief during grave time of Earthquake. salute
— Nostalgic Weraz ™ (@imWeraz) August 19, 2015
The number of charities and NGOs operating around the world is innumerable. #WorldHumanitarianDay offers a chance to remember and appreciate the important work carried out by their representatives. It is also a time for reflection. For the remembrance of those who lost their lives in service of humanity.
On #WorldHumanitarianDay we remember our colleagues who lost their lives, including those who were tragically killed in Afghanistan in May.
— ActionAid UK (@ActionAidUK) August 19, 2015
Honouring those whose lives have been lost protecting civilians through #mineaction on #WorldHumanitarianDay pic.twitter.com/zwtTrmZZMj
— MAG (@MAGsaveslives) August 19, 2015
#WorldHumanitarianDay: Today we remember Unicef staff who lost their lives in the Unicef bus attack in #Somalia http://t.co/bKzYBhb7V7
— Unicef UK (@UNICEF_uk) August 19, 2015
With thousands of tweets, it is clear that their work is much appreciated. And as conflict intensifies, and climate change threatens to drive people from their homes, humanitarian workers will continue to be a vital lifeline.