The first-ever World Humanitarian Summit took place in İstanbul on 23-24 May 2016. The Summit brought together approximately 60 Heads of State and Government and other officials from 173 states, and over 10 thousand participants. The Summit served as a unique platform to address the most pressing challenges and set an agenda to keep humanitarian action fit for the future. On the occasion of the Summit, Turkey also had the opportunity to share its experiences and practices in the field of humanitarian policy.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Summit, President Erdoğan stated that the international community should share responsibilities and act swiftly, and that Turkey has assumed a vital role in the field of humanitarian aid by using every possible means. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon underlined that commitments made at the Summit should be fulfilled.