The world will today, Wednesday, 19th August, 2009, observe World Humanitarian Day is an occasion for paying tribute to the men and women who work to save the lives and protect the health of people affected by emergencies, whether caused by conflict or natural disasters.

In a message to mark the day, Dr Margaret Chan, the director general of the World Health Organisation said these are often life-threatening situations, and those who offer help put their own lives at risk. According to her, this day is also an occasion for remembering humanitarian staff who lost their lives serving others. "There are many, and they come from partner UN agencies, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and numerous intergovernmental and nongovernmental organizations. WHO remembers its own staff who have lost their lives with great sadness, but also great respect" she said.

As the number of emergencies continues to increase, she said, people must remain steadfast in their determination to help - to be quickly on the scene in the growing number of "hot spots" around the world. "We have a humanitarian imperative, supported by clear codes of conduct, to extend help to those who have been displaced, or injured, or need food, water, shelter, comfort and essential medical care" she said.

On this World Humanitarian Day, the WHO boss reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to lead international and national responses to the health component of emergencies through the "Health Cluster" approach, uniting a diversity of skills and capacities from many partners. "In doing so, we will continue to look for ways to streamline and better coordinate activities under demanding conditions.

During an emergency, every minute counts, and every resource, above all staff, must be used as wisely, rationally, and safely as possible. This, too, is part of the humanitarian imperative shared by all, and remembered on this day" she concluded.