World Humanitarian Day is observed on 19 August, a day dedicated to honouring the professionals, volunteers and organisations that support people affected by conflicts, disasters and other humanitarian crises.
In 2026, the United Nations campaign reinforces the call for the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers, for respect for international humanitarian law, and for the creation of conditions to ensure that aid reaches those who need it. By the end of May, more than 252 million people were in urgent need of humanitarian assistance and protection, whilst international response plans had received only around a quarter of the necessary funding.
Physiotherapy plays a key role in these contexts. From the earliest stages of the response right through to the recovery and reconstruction processes, physiotherapists help to preserve functionality, prevent disability, promote independence and improve the quality of life of people affected by emergencies, disasters and humanitarian crises.
Humanitarian action is not limited to the immediate response. It also involves ensuring dignity, inclusion, participation and every person’s right to recover with the highest possible level of functionality and autonomy.
On this World Humanitarian Day, the Portuguese Physiotherapists’ Association is joining the #ActForHumanity campaign, paying tribute to all those working in these contexts and reaffirming the importance of integrating physiotherapy and rehabilitation into national and international responses to crises.