Turkish Red Crescent marks ‘World Humanitarian Day’ with photo exhibition

The Turkish Red Crescent commemorated World Humanitarian Day on August 19 with a compelling photo exhibition at the Renda Cultural and Arts Center in Ankara.

The exhibition, focusing on challenges faced by humanitarian workers in conflict zones, underscores the global commitment to protecting aid workers and civilians.

The event, titled “Humanitarian” and “Not a Target,” showcases powerful images that depict the reality of humanitarian work.

A special section honors Mehmet Arif Kidiman, a Turkish Red Crescent worker who was tragically killed during an aid mission in Syria. The exhibition also features photographs by Anadolu Agency photojournalists, capturing the vulnerability of aid workers in dangerous environments.

The importance of protecting humanitarian workers and Turkish Red Crescent

During the opening ceremony, Turkish Red Crescent President Fatma Meric Yilmaz highlighted the critical need to protect humanitarian workers worldwide.

“Keeping humanitarian corridors open and ensuring the safety of aid workers and civilians is a priority,” she emphasized.

Yilmaz noted that despite their selfless efforts, humanitarian workers have become frequent targets, particularly in the last two years.

Three-part exhibition reflects challenges of humanitarian work

The exhibition is divided into three sections. The first section features portraits of people from various countries, as seen through the lenses of Turkish Red Crescent photographers.

The second section addresses the alarming trend of attacks on humanitarian workers, with a particular focus on Gaza, which has been the most dangerous area for aid workers this year.

Over 200 humanitarian workers have lost their lives in similar attacks. The third section memorializes those who have been killed or injured in conflict zones like Syria, Somalia, and Gaza, including a display of the vest worn by Mehmet Arif Kıdıman during the fatal attack in Syria.

Thompson: Urgent action needed to protect humanitarian workers

Jessie Thompson, Head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Türkiye Delegation, called for urgent measures to protect humanitarian workers globally.

“This year alone, we have lost 28 brave Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and staff,” she said.

Thompson stressed the importance of recognizing the collective responsibility to safeguard those who dedicate their lives to humanitarian work.

Exhibition reinforces the need for global protection

The photo exhibit, which serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by humanitarian workers, was attended by Ankara Governor Vasip Sahin and Anadolu Agency Deputy Director-General Oguz Enis Peru.

The event at the Renda Cultural and Arts Center aims to raise awareness and advocate for stronger protection measures for those on the front lines of humanitarian aid.