Many of us are endowed with a unique trait – if a fellow human is sad or in pain, we can perceive that emotion and our first natural instinct is to extend a helping hand. Perhaps this is one of the most defining features of humanity – our ability to empathize.
A study conducted by University of Virginia suggests that we are all wired to empathize. Not just towards our close ones – family and friends – the humanitarian spirit lets us rush to even strangers in need of help. For instance, when you see an elderly lady in the garden trying her best to walk in spite of age-related disability, your first instinct is to help. Similarly, in case of a tragedy, there are many who come forward to help by donating blood, food and do something through whatever means possible.
On August 19th 2003, a bomb attack in Baghdad, Iraq, killed 22 humanitarian aid workers, including the UN Special General Secretary. Later, in 2008, the United Nations General Assembly designated August 19th as World Humanitarian Day (WHD).
The theme for World Humanitarian Day in the year 2023 is ‘The Human Race’ and its slogan is ‘it takes a village’ – because more than often, a mammoth effort is required to help people. Food, water, shelter, education, health, nutrition and protection, help means many things at different points in time.
As human population grows, so do the threats in the form of epidemics, health emergencies, natural disasters, human conflicts like wars and accidents. With increased humanitarian needs throughout the world, this year’s World Humanitarian Day (WHD) is dedicated to global appreciation of humanitarian efforts and on bringing people together from different walks of life.
In 2008, the United Nations General Assembly designated August 19th as World Humanitarian Day (WHD).
The theme for World Humanitarian Day 2023 is ‘The Human Race’ and its slogan is ‘it takes a village’.
Empathy is when one understands what the other person is experiencing. You are empathetic when you are able to see yourself in other’s shoes.
Daniel Goleman, the author of the book Emotional Intelligence states that at a deeper level, empathy is about defining, understanding, and reacting to the troubles and needs of others’ emotional responses and reactions.
Comments