World Humanitarian Day is a time to recognize those who face danger and adversity in order to help others. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the spirit that inspires humanitarian work. The theme for this year is “Real Life Heroes”, recognising the work of humanitarian workers on the ground working to help build a better world, which is particularly challenging during the COVID-19 environment. 

Today, thousands of people across Nepal are affected by crises and need humanitarian assistance. Women and girls face especially difficult challenges in these situations. The risk of violence escalates, and their access to health care declines. Globally, more than half of all maternal deaths are believed to occur in fragile states and humanitarian settings. 

On World Humanitarian Day, let's pay tribute to the brave humanitarian workers who, despite the odds, have risked or lost their lives providing assistance and protection to those in need. UNFPA works closely with the Government of Nepal and partners to ensure that reproductive health is integrated into emergency responses. UNFPA also deploys hygiene supplies, obstetric and family planning supplies, health personnel, counsellors and other support to vulnerable populations, and works to ensure the needs of women and young people are served through both the emergency and the reconstruction phases.