Humanitarians are united by a shared mission to save and protect lives, deliver the basic necessities of life and bring hope to communities stricken by disaster. They stand shoulder to shoulder with the communities they serve, no matter who, no matter where and #NoMatterWhat, which is the theme of WHD 2023. #NoMatterWhat serves as a reminder of how important it is to help people affected by natural disasters, armed conflict or other large-scale crises and to reaffirm commitment to the guiding principles underlining all humanitarian action. This year, which has seen a record high in global humanitarian needs, marks the 20th anniversary of the attack on the United Nations in Baghdad on 19 August 2003, which led the UN General Assembly to designate the date as World Humanitarian Day.

Slovenia has always emphasised the importance of quick and efficient humanitarian action. As a responsible member of the international community, Slovenia doubled outgoing humanitarian aid last year and will continue to enhance humanitarian action considering the growing gap between global needs and available funds.

Slovenia provides aid to people affected by both natural and man-made disasters, as well as prolonged and often forgotten crises. This year, it offered continued support to Ukraine, sent help to earthquake-stricken Türkiye and Syria, provided aid for food security in sub-Saharan Africa, and responded to urgent humanitarian needs in Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria and elsewhere. Slovenia provided this assistance through international organisations forming part of the UN, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. On the bilateral level, Slovenia also provides emergency response through its strategic partner, Caritas Slovenia, and offers urgent rescue and material assistance through the Administration of the Republic of Slovenia for Civil Protection and Disaster Relief. Furthermore, it supports post-conflict activities and projects aimed at strengthening resilience and minimising disaster risk that are organised by ITF Enhancing Human Security and Slovenian NGOs.