From Remembrance to Action
Marking one year since the unveiling of the UK's Humanitarian Memorial
One year on
On 1 October 2026, the humanitarian community marks one year since the unveiling of the UK's Humanitarian Memorial, a tribute to humanitarian workers who have lost their lives in service to others.From Remembrance to Action brings together key stakeholders from the humanitarian sector and wider community to honour those we have lost, and to renew our commitment to protecting humanitarian workers worldwide. Over the coming months, the Humanitarian Memorial Partnership will host a Programme of events moving from a moment of national reflection to a call for action strengthening UK leadership on the protection of humanitarian workers.The 2026 Programme
Four moments mark this year's anniversary from remembrance to action:
● Evensong and Wreath-Laying Ceremony — 19 August, St Paul's Cathedral, World Humanitarian Day
● Creative Futures Workshop — 1 October, Gunnersbury Park (invite only)
● Policy Roundtable: Protecting Humanitarians Together — 1 October, Gunnersbury Park (invite only)
● Commemorative Evening — 1 October, Gunnersbury ParkWhy it matters
Every humanitarian worker who risks their life to help others deserves to work in safety. The Humanitarian Memorial stands as a permanent reminder of that responsibility.
About the Memorial
A permanent tribute to humanitarian workers who have lost their lives in service to others
Our storyThe Humanitarian Memorial was unveiled by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, and stands as the UK's national tribute to humanitarian workers who have lost their lives in service to others. One year on, we return to reflect on its purpose and to renew our collective commitment to those who continue this vital work.The designThe memorial takes the form of a circular formation of interconnected figures, a physical embodiment of unity, remembrance and collective responsibility. Gaps within the design invite visitors to complete the circle themselves: a quiet, personal act of participation that reflects the shared responsibility we all hold for the safety of humanitarian workers.Who we rememberThe memorial honours humanitarian workers the aid workers, medics, drivers and volunteers, who have lost their lives while delivering assistance to people in crisis around the world. It stands as a lasting recognition of their courage and service.The Humanitarian Memorial PartnershipThe memorial and its ongoing Programme are overseen by the Humanitarian Memorial Partnership, bringing together humanitarian organisations, government and the UK public to ensure the memorial's meaning endures for generations to come.For more information on the installation, please visit the Gunnersbury Park website.
2026 Event
St Paul's Cathedral · 19 August 2026
Evensong and Wreath-Laying Ceremony
16:45–18:15
A commemorative gathering to honour humanitarian workers who have lost their lives in service to others. An opportunity for remembrance, reflection and recognition of the humanitarian community.
Gunnersbury park · 1 October 2026
Creative Futures Workshop (invite only)
11:00–13:00
An interactive youth session exploring the memorial's artistic concept, symbolism and stories with Zafeerah Heesambee. Connecting art, remembrance and humanitarian action, the workshop deepens understanding of the memorial's meaning and creation.Protecting Humanitarians Together: Strengthening UK Leadership and Action (invite only)
14:00–17:00
A high-level policy roundtable convened in partnership with GISF, focused on the UK's progress on commitments to the protection of humanitarian personnel, a catalyst for dialogue and action to strengthen accountability and improve the safety and security of humanitarian workers worldwide.Commemorative Evening
18:00–20:00
Bringing together humanitarian organisations, supporters and the public to reflect on the memorial's purpose and continuing significance, celebrate humanitarian values, and recognise the enduring commitment of humanitarian workers worldwide.
Get in touch
Contact
General enquiries
For general enquiries about the Humanitarian Memorial, the first anniversary programme, or how to get involved, please get in touch using the details below.
Email:Media enquiries
For press and media enquiries, including interview requests, photography and filming permissions, or accreditation for Programme events, please contact our press office.
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For urgent enquiries relating to a live event, please call: