His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales officially unveiled the first global memorial to humanitarian aid workers in Gunnersbury Park on Wednesday (1 October).
The Humanitarian Memorial has been created by renowned British artist Michael Landy CBE RA to commemorate all humanitarians who have been killed in service – of whatever nationality – and to celebrate humanitarianism and those who continue to put their lives at risk to help others in need.
The unveiling of this memorial comes at a time of increases in the numbers of humanitarian aid workers killed. Last year 383 aid workers were killed around the world.
Guests on Wednesday included bereaved families and colleagues of humanitarian workers, representatives from the humanitarian and arts sectors, and Ealing Council’s cabinet member for thriving communities, Councillor Blerina Hashani.
The Prince of Wales paid tribute to humanitarians in his speech, saying: “Rather than running away from danger, discomfort and hunger, these incredibly brave men and women stay behind to bring whatever respite, compassion and care they can to those who need it the most.
“We must champion and fight for their access to people in the most desperate of circumstances.”
He then met with bereaved families of humanitarians and survivors of targeted attacks.
Other speakers at the event included Tom Fletcher CMG, United Nations under-secretary general for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Sayyeda Salam, Executive Director for Concern Worldwide (UK) and Sir John Holmes, Chair of the Humanitarian Memorial Committee.
Mr Fletcher said: “Humanitarians carry hope where there is despair. They bring humanity where there is inhumanity. Selflessness into a world too often defined by selfishness. For many, this is not just a job – it is a vocation, a mission with meaning and profound significance. But for too many, it is also the ultimate sacrifice. Humanitarians are under attack as never before. Last year, more than 380 aid workers were killed – the highest number ever recorded. Our demand is clear: protect civilians, protect humanitarians, and call time on impunity.”
The memorial, a 7-metre diameter circle made from British steel and painted green, features a circle of 15 human-scale figures, in groups of 5, with spaces allowing visitors to join hands to ‘complete the circle.’ Each figure features the first-hand story of either a giver or recipient of humanitarian assistance – stories that have been provided by international aid agencies including Oxfam, Save the Children and Care International.
Artist, Michael said: “It has been a truly humbling experience being part of the process to create this art piece. The 15 stories that make up part of the memorial bear witness to the best and worst of humanity. I hope the memorial will inspire a whole new generation of humanitarian aid workers and provide a place to go for reflection and some comfort for bereaved families and colleagues.”
Councillor Hashani said: “It was really moving to reflect on the stories of sacrifice and courage by humanitarians around the world. As a borough we have a proud history of welcoming people fleeing conflicts and natural disasters and that is partly why Gunnersbury Park was chosen. It’s also why we are a proud Borough of Sanctuary offering support to those seeking safety and a new start.”
