The date was chosen because that was the day in 2003 when the UN Headquarters in Baghdad was bombed, killing well known humanitarian leader Sergio Vieira de Mello and 21 others. After a concerted effort by the Sergio Vieira de Mello Foundation, the proposal for World Humanitarian Day made its way successfully through the UN Assembly.

Each year, the UN will highlight certain specific humanitarian crises around the world and the brave people who risk their lives in bringing food, medicine, and other aid to people in need.

Additionally, there are global social media campaigns on and near World Humanitarian Day to create public awareness.

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