Annual light up in Kobe tonight for World Humanitarian Day

World Humanitarian Day 世界人道デー is observed every year on August 19, a United Nations international day established in 2008. The date marks the anniversary of the 2003 bombing of the UN headquarters in Baghdad, where 22 humanitarian workers lost their lives and more than 100 were injured. 

Today, the day serves as a global reminder to recognize the 125 million people worldwide who need humanitarian assistance due to conflict and natural disasters. It is also a time to honor the courage and dedication of humanitarian workers who operate in some of the world’s most challenging environments. Thus, the slogan of the anniversary is "Protect Those Who Protect Humanity."

In Japan, World Humanitarian Day is marked with a special illumination event in Kobe. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has its only Japanese office based in the city. Several iconic landmarks are lit in blue from around dusk. Reportedly, Meriken Park is a good place to capture the Kobe Port Tower, Kobe Maritime Museum and Mosaic Ferris Wheel in blue, all at once.