The song "Do They Know It's Christmas" by Band Aid II carries a powerful message about the stark contrast between the joy and abundance often felt during the holiday season and the harsh realities faced by those suffering in West Africa.

The lyrics convey the idea that during Christmas, people generally experience a sense of unity and hope, as symbolized by the light that "banishes shade" and the spreading of "a smile of joy." However, the song emphasizes that while people are enjoying themselves, there is a whole world outside their windows filled with fear, dread, poverty, and suffering.

The reference to a "world of dread and fear" implies the dire circumstances faced by the people in West Africa, where they are afflicted by illness, poverty, and death (represented by "a kiss of love can kill you" and "death in every tear").

The line "Why is comfort deadly fear, why is to touch to be scared" suggests that even basic human gestures of comfort and compassion can be risky in this context, likely referring to the fear of contracting diseases like Ebola, which was particularly prevalent in West Africa at the time the song was released in 1989.

The lyrics aim to raise awareness and urge listeners to extend their compassion and support to those less fortunate, specifically in West Africa. The song calls for action to "Bring peace and joy this Christmas to West Africa" and encourages people to "Feed the world" by providing aid and assistance. The repetition of the line "Let them know it's Christmas time again" emphasizes the urgency and importance of addressing the suffering and plight of those in need during the holiday season.

Overall, "Do They Know It's Christmas" reminds listeners of the stark disparities in the world and encourages them to extend a hand of compassion and generosity during the holiday season, emphasizing the importance of unity and spreading hope to those in need.