In 2015, a group of prominent UK-based humanitarians was established with the vision of creating a lasting tribute to aid workers. Contemporary Art Society, a charity which has worked with living artists for more than a hundred years, was tasked with commissioning a contemporary artist for this important project. Following a thorough selection process, Michael Landy CBE, RA was unanimously chosen to bring this vision to life.

Landy’s design features a circle of 15 human-scale figures, grouped in fives, with spaces allowing visitors to join hands to ‘complete the circle.’ Each figure features the story of either a giver or recipient of humanitarian aid – stories that have been provided by international aid agencies like Oxfam, Save the Children and Care International. Coupled with Landy’s signature drawings, the figures offer a glimpse of the work of humanitarians for visitors of all ages.

The memorial aims not only to honour those who have lost their lives while helping others but also to celebrate the ongoing dedication and sacrifices of humanitarian workers globally..

While international humanitarian aid workers are deployed to some of the most challenging environments in the world, and face severe risks there, the majority of humanitarian workers are local, working in crises in their home countries, and too many pay the ultimate price for their actions. Sadly, until now, there has been no public, dedicated site globally for families, friends, and colleagues to gather in remembrance and celebration of these lives given in service to others.

This memorial aims to fill that void, recognising not only those who have perished in the line of duty but also those who continue to be driven by humanitarian principles. It is a celebration of lives dedicated to humanity, independence, and impartiality, and a means to raise awareness of the achievements and challenges in delivering life-saving aid.

Humanitarian Memorial