On World Humanitarian Day, we pay tribute to all those who help others in the most difficult of circumstances

Humanitarian workers offer hope and the prospect of survival to over 305 million people in 72 countries. According to the United Nations, more than 380 humanitarian workers were killed in 2024, and 265 have already lost their lives this year. Since October 2023, more than 320 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza, where the situation is particularly dangerous.

The Ministry notes with concern that due to an increasing number of conflicts and natural disasters, the gap between humanitarian needs and available aid is growing. Meanwhile, the number of violations of international humanitarian law is on the rise: deliberate attacks against civilians and humanitarian workers, journalists, health facilities, schools and other civilian targets, as well as the obstruction of humanitarian aid deliveries and the use of starvation as a weapon.

World Humanitarian Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring that those most in need have safe and unhindered access to humanitarian aid. Slovenia, as a responsible member of the international community, is committed to upholding international humanitarian law and supporting the effective functioning of humanitarian organisations, including through its activities within the UN Security Council. Slovenia is the initiator of the Global Alliance to Spare Water from Armed Conflicts. Together with Guyana, it acts as a co-focal point on conflict and hunger within the Security Council. It also supports the Global Initiative to Galvanize Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law, led by the International Committee of the Red Cross.

In order to alleviate suffering and restore dignity to victims of humanitarian crises, including those in Ukraine, Gaza and Sudan, as well as to assist those affected by natural disasters, Slovenia provides humanitarian aid through international humanitarian organisations and Slovenian providers. Since 2021, it has tripled its humanitarian aid and entered into multi-year partnerships with the International Committee of the Red Cross and Caritas Slovenia.

In the framework of the Bled Strategic Forum, the 3rd Slovenian Humanitarian Forum will be held on 2 September. Entitled 'Reimagining Multilateral Action in an Age of Crisis and Constraint', the forum will seek sustainable solutions to ensure effective, inclusive and equitable humanitarian aid, as well as to strengthen the role of local actors.

The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs would like to express its deep respect and support for all those who demonstrate solidarity, courage and dedication in helping others in the most challenging circumstances. In this context, Slovenia is once again joining the global effort to enhance the safety and dignity of everyone involved in humanitarian action – those who provide and those who receive aid.