ABU DHABI, 19th August, 2024 (WAM) -- The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) celebrated today World Humanitarian Day at its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, with the participation of several UN humanitarian organisations, local associations, and media institutions.
Rashid Mubarak Al Mansouri, Secretary-General of the ERC, stated that the philanthropic organisation's humanitarian and ethical commitment towards the victims of crises and disasters is gleaned from the rich legacy of the late Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, a champion and refuge for humanity, whose path is followed by the UAE's wise leadership.
This commitment, he added, places significant responsibilities on the ERC to alleviate human suffering, especially given the numerous humanitarian challenges the international arena faces due to severe crises, disasters, conflicts, wars, climate-related natural disasters, poverty, hunger, migration, displacement, and successive health crises. “These combined events have exacerbated human suffering and led to the emergence of many humanitarian issues and challenges.”
Al Mansouri also noted that on this important global humanitarian occasion, it is essential to acknowledge and appreciate the tremendous efforts of humanitarian workers and volunteers. “Despite the challenges and obstacles they face in the field, they continue to perform their duties with great dedication and sincerity, striving to reach those in need in the most dangerous and volatile areas, undeterred by the risks surrounding them. They have always been at the heart of the action.”
Regarding the role of media in supporting humanitarian work, Jamal Nasser Al Suwaider, Executive Director of the News Content Sector at the Emirates News Agency (WAM), stated that media plays a crucial role in transmitting information to and from affected areas during crises and disasters. “It serves as a primary tool for coordinating relief efforts and delivering aid to those in need.”
Media, he added, is a vital partner in humanitarian work, contributing to public awareness and mobilising support and resources.
He highlighted that the media in the UAE significantly contributes to highlighting the aid the country provides to various fraternal and friendly nations to alleviate their suffering and support them during hardships and crises.
WAM's Executive Director of the News Content Sector indicated that the UAE humanitarian aid is a role model of global humanitarian work that not only focuses on providing material assistance but also aims to build human capabilities through various developmental projects designed to uplift communities and help them progress.
Al Suwaider emphasised that the UAE's humanitarian efforts are a message of goodwill and tolerance, earning appreciation from people worldwide.
He particularly noted the UAE's role in promoting noble humanitarian values, which have become a fundamental part of the country's approach under its wise leadership, offering exemplary models of unity and solidarity for the greater good of all humanity.
Nader Al-Naqeeb, Regional Head of Private Sector Partnerships for the Middle East and North Africa at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), referred to the findings of the report released by UNHCR last June on global trends in forced displacement.
The report highlighted key developments and statistics regarding the conditions of forcibly displaced people around the world.
Hani Al-Zubaidi, CEO of Make a Wish Foundation UAE, stated that the foundation's humanitarian strategy is based on the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, a living example of humanity and boundless generosity. He was a leader who dedicated his life to serving humanity and society, not only in the UAE but also extending to the entire world.