Photo by RET

Article by RET Global Communications

Every August 19, the world pauses to mark World Humanitarian Day, a moment established by the United Nations to honor humanitarians who have given their lives and to celebrate those who continue to deliver assistance worldwide. It is a day of remembrance—but also a day of commitment.

Why It Matters to Us

At RET International, we don’t just celebrate humanitarians one day a year—we live these values every day. Since our founding a quarter century ago by Mrs. Sadako Ogata, former United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, our organization has been rooted in the principles that guide humanitarian action: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence.

These principles are more than words on paper; they are the foundation of how we act in the world. They guide our work in crisis zones and fragile contexts, where every decision must uphold dignity, fairness, and hope. World Humanitarian Day matters to us because it is a reminder of why we exist: to stand with communities when they need it most and to promote the values of Reliance, Empowerment, and Transformation.

Photos by RET

What We Do Every Day

From Latin America to Africa, we are dedicated to empowering youth, women, and girls—the heart of our mission since the very beginning. Education is our cornerstone: it is the bridge that allows individuals to overcome displacement, conflict, and poverty, and to lead their communities into a better future.

• In Peru, we are currently implementing a multiyear project with Education Cannot Wait, the United Nations fund for education in emergencies, focused on ensuring that all children can not only access education, but have the tools and support they need to truly succeed.
• In Ecuador, as well, we’re working with Education Cannot Wait to expanding access to education and protection services for refugee and host community youth, ensuring no young person is left behind.
• In Niger, we’re building resilience by supporting girls’ education, vocational training, and community protection in regions deeply affected by instability.
• And in many other countries across the world, we’re supporting individuals’ fundamental right to education.

These programs are more than projects—they are lifelines. They embody our vision of transforming lives and fostering leadership where it is needed most.

How You Can Join Us

Humanitarian action is not limited to those in the field. You can stand with us:

• Donate – Your support fuels education, protection, and opportunity for communities worldwide. Click here to make a donation today.
• Apply to work with us – Join our team of dedicated professionals and bring your skills where they matter most. To stay up to date on opportunities, click here to sign up to our mailing list.
• Reach out with ideas – Have a vision for how we can expand our impact? We are ready to collaborate. Send us a message today at communication@theret.org

A Call to Action

On this World Humanitarian Day, we honor those who embody courage and compassion in action. But remembrance alone is not enough. Together, we must act—to ensure that the dignity of every person is respected, protected, and upheld.

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