Source · Select Committees · International Development Committee
Recommendation 33
33
Accepted in Part
Commemorate sacrifices of aid workers through memorial services and parliamentary updates.
Recommendation
We recommend that the Government takes appropriate opportunities to commemorate the sacrifices of the hundreds of aid workers every year who pay the ultimate price in the service of others. This should include representation at the memorial service in Westminster Abbey, speeches coinciding with the UN Secretary General’s update on Resolution 2730 (2024), and when updating Parliament on the FCDO’s work. (Recommendation, Paragraph 67) 53
Government Response Summary
The government agrees to commemorate aid worker sacrifices, noting it already marks World Humanitarian Day, attends memorial services, delivers speeches for UNSCR 2730, and has introduced the Humanitarian Medal. It welcomes the suggestion to update Parliament on this issue as feasible.
Government Response
Accepted in Part
HM Government
Accepted in Part
Agree FCDO marks World Humanitarian Day on 19 August by paying tribute to the bravery of humanitarians and voicing support for international law. Senior UK representatives also attend memorial services to commemorate lives lost during humanitarian responses. The Humanitarian Medal was introduced in July 2023 as a way of honouring those deployed by the UK to assist in the response to major humanitarian events/disasters. It can be awarded to those in public service and members of organisations that contribute on behalf of the Government, such as charities, which respond in the aftermath of a crisis. The medal is awarded to people and organisations that have responded to emergencies both in the UK or overseas. 31 Humanitarian medals have been awarded so far. It can be awarded posthumously, if an individual meets the eligibility criteria. The UK will continue to deliver speeches at the UN Security Council in support of UNSCR 2730, which the UK co-sponsored, and we welcome the suggestion to update parliament on this important issue as feasible and appropriate.