ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday paid heartfelt tributes to humanitarian workers serving people affected by disasters, conflicts, and crises, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to compassion, human dignity, and social justice.
In their separate messages on World Humanitarian Day, observed on Aug 19, both leaders acknowledged the courage and dedication of humanitarian personnel working in difficult and often dangerous conditions to provide relief and support to vulnerable communities.
In his message on X, President Zardari said, “Humanitarian workers play a vital role in helping communities withstand and recover from crises, describing their efforts as a reflection of compassion and respect for human dignity.”
He appreciated the services of social workers, counsellors, healthcare providers, child protection workers and humanitarian personnel across Pakistan, saying their dedication reinforces the shared responsibility to assist people in need and ensure that no one is left without support during emergencies.
The President reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to protecting fundamental rights and human dignity in line with the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973, and the country's international human rights treaties.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to humanitarian workers and organizations dedicated to advancing human welfare.
He said: “World Humanitarian Day honors the 22 humanitarian workers who lost their lives in the 2003 bombing of the United Nations compound in Baghdad, Iraq.”
The Prime Minister highlighted Pakistan’s longstanding humanitarian contributions, particularly its participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions and its decades-long hosting of millions of Afghan refugees.
“Pakistan continues to demonstrate compassion and solidarity by assisting people affected by humanitarian crises at regional and global levels,” he said.
At the domestic level, the prime minister said, the government remains focused on protecting vulnerable and marginalized segments of society and building an inclusive and equitable society.
He highlighted measures being undertaken by the Ministry of Human Rights through welfare centers, training institutions and protection facilities, including efforts to promote the social inclusion of persons with disabilities and improve their access to civic services.
The government is also taking measures to increase women’s participation in social and economic life, while prioritizing the protection of children and empowerment of young people.
“Protecting vulnerable communities, advancing gender equality and promoting social justice remain essential to Pakistan’s humanitarian and human rights agenda,” the prime minister said in his message.
Pakistan, he said, will continue to uphold the highest ideals of humanity in times of both peace and crisis, ensuring vulnerable people receive protection, support and opportunities to live with dignity.