Baghdad: The United Nations in Iraq commemorated World Humanitarian Day and the 23rd anniversary of the bombing of the Canal Hotel building in central Baghdad on Wednesday, in the presence of UN officials, the representative of the President of the Republic, diplomatic missions, and international organizations working in Iraq. They remembered the souls of 22 of its employees who lost their lives in the attack and renewed their commitment to continue working for peace, humanity, and dignity.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, during the commemoration ceremony, the Acting UN Resident Coordinator in Iraq, Peter Hawkins, stated, “The horrific attack on the UN headquarters at the Canal Hotel on August 19, 2003, resulted in the loss of 22 of our colleagues and injuries to others, while survivors continue to bear the scars and memories of that day.”
Hawkins emphasized that the commemoration is not merely about recalling the details of the tragedy, but also about remembering the lives of the victims, who were “sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, friends and mentors.” He noted that they came to Iraq to serve its people, support peace, contribute to recovery, and instill hope.
He paid special tribute to the late UN Special Representative Sergio Vieira de Mello, affirming that his leadership and dedication continue to inspire many around the world. He also saluted the survivors of the attack and honored their resilience, assuring them of the UN’s support.
He added that the UN also remembers the families of the victims, whose lives were “changed forever,” reiterating that their loved ones will remain in the organization’s memory and will never be forgotten.
Hawkins noted that the attack was intended to spread fear and sow division, but instead, it strengthened the United Nations’ resolve to continue working for peace, humanity, and dignity. He pointed out that the values UN staff brought to Iraq 23 years ago continue to guide their work today.
The Acting UN Coordinator praised the significant contribution of Iraqis to the work of the United Nations, emphasizing that Iraqis have demonstrated, during years of challenges and difficult circumstances, an exceptional capacity for resilience, courage, and determination to build a better future for their country.
Hawkins concluded by stressing that the commemoration is an occasion to remember the past and renew commitment to the future, saying that the best tribute to those who lost their lives is to continue upholding the values they lived for and dedicated their lives to, so that their memory remains a guiding light for future generations.