"Let us fulfill our humanitarian imperative" (Ban Ki-moon)
United Nations, New York, 19 August 2009 - In a message marking the first World Humanitarian Day, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said the UN continues to draw inspiration from the legacy of the people who were killed in Baghdad, and noted that the Sergio Vieira de Mello Foundation is establishing an annual prize in his name to recognize outstanding achievements in the peaceful reconciliation of conflict.
Mr. Ban said that the men and women who serve as humanitarian workers come from many backgrounds. But they share a conviction that one persons suffering is everyones responsibility.
He stressed the need for the international community to renew our commitment to help vulnerable, voiceless and marginalized people wherever they may be. That is the abiding mission of the humanitarian community.
