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On World Humanitarian Day, health workers in Syria carry hope forward
On World Humanitarian Day, health workers in Syria carry hope forward
19 August 2025, Syrian Arab Republic – On World Humanitarian Day, we pause to honour those who, in times of crisis, step forward to help the millions whose lives hang in the balance. In Syria, where more than 14 years of conflict have left the health system fragile and overstretched, it is a responsibility health workers and communities carry every day.
So far this year, the World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed 31 attacks on health care in Syria. Health facilities, ambulances, medical supplies and health workers have all been targeted. Five health workers have been killed while serving their communities. These are the conditions health workers face as they seek to support their communities.
One of the world’s largest humanitarian crises persists. More than 16.7 million people inside Syria need urgent humanitarian health support. Around 7.4 million remain displaced, while over 4.5 million Syrian refugees live in neighbouring countries. Many still hope to return home – a reminder that strengthening health services in potential areas of return is essential.
WHO expands trauma and mental health support to protect Somalia’s health workers
WHO expands trauma and mental health support to protect Somalia’s health workers
19 August 2025, Mogadishu, Somalia – In Somalia’s under-resourced hospitals, trauma patients often arrive to find blood supply and essential medical equipment shortages, trauma teams with limited capacity and inadequate systems in place for handling a surge in trauma patients. During mass casualty incidents these limitations cause delays that put lives at risk.
As violence escalates in parts of Jubaland and Somaliland, Somalia’s emergency health system and first responders face mounting challenges. Health workers, including doctors, nurses, security staff and cleaners, regularly operate under high pressure. They must make critical decisions while managing the emotional and physical demands of repeated exposure to trauma. Over time, this sustained stress can negatively impact their well-being and ability to deliver quality care.
World Humanitarian Day 2025: WHO Yemen honors health workers and their dedication to saving lives in times of crisis
World Humanitarian Day 2025: WHO Yemen honors health workers and their dedication to saving lives in times of crisis
19 August 2025. Aden, Yemen – On World Humanitarian Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) in Yemen is paying tribute to the courage, dedication and sacrifice of health workers and humanitarian personnel who work tirelessly to save lives in one of the world’s most complex emergencies.
Over 19.6 million people in Yemen are in need of humanitarian assistance to meet their most basic needs. WHO and its partners continue to work alongside the Ministry of Public Health and Population and other health actors to ensure the delivery of lifesaving health services in the face of escalating needs, insecurity and restricted access.
“Health workers in Yemen are on the frontlines every day – delivering babies, responding to disease outbreaks, treating the wounded and ensuring communities have access to essential care – often at great personal risk,” said Acting WHO Representative in Yemen Office Dr Nuha Mahmoud. “They are the backbone of our humanitarian lifeline. It is their resilience that inspires us to continue our mission.”
