18 August 2009 - New Zealand aid worker Seth Le Leu lives in no man's land, within the crossfire of international conflict.

Today, (Wednesday August 19) the United Nations is honouring international humanitarian workers who are constantly make sacrifices and putting their personal security at risk, to serve those living in vulnerable conditions.

As Programme Director for World Vision in South Sudan, Le Leu courts the complexities of humanitarian work daily as he oversees operations in one of the most vulnerable and volatile nations of the world.

Earlier this year, opposing rebel groups battled with tanks and artillery outside World Vision's compound.

When the fighting ceased, Le Leu and his staff resumed their work - providing emergency food, clean water and education to thousands of displaced people.

It is important not to get caught up in the chaos or the "CNN moment", but to focus on the hope and transformation that often goes unnoticed says Le Leu.

"If we let the enormity of the situation get to us, we will never achieve what we're here to do. World Vision's work is all about bringing hope and transformation, child by child, community by community."

South Sudan has experienced protracted conflict including two civil wars, over the past 50 years. Also of concern are the more than 300,000 internally displaced people (IDP's), who have fled from insecurity associated with rebel groups.

Last year, an escalation of conflict in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) led to a mass exodus of refugees across the border into neighbouring countries like South Sudan.

Despite the politically uncertain and volatile situation, people are slowly rebuilding their lives. Humanitarian workers are assisting people to again work their land to improve food security. With support, internally displaced people and refugees are building resilience and reclaiming their independence.

The United Nations reports 90 per cent of all disaster victims live in developing countries, where poverty and a lack of resources exacerbate suffering (UN, 1999).

Last year, World Vision humanitarian workers responded to disasters in 60 countries, providing immediate emergency aid for children and families. Along with emergency food, water, and shelter, World Vision assesses the needs and means of facilitating long-term physical and psychological relief.