Present on all fronts, at the heart of armed conflicts, natural disasters and other emergency situations, several international organizations are working all over the world to offer their help to disaster-stricken populations and to alleviate their suffering, through their networks of millions of people, all guided by the same principles of volunteering, solidarity and mutual aid.
Serving the most vulnerable groups and individuals around the world for decades, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is on the front lines of this unprecedented health crisis. For 70 years, 8 May has marked World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, an opportunity to pay tribute to the work and commitment of more than 13 million volunteers around the world.
This day corresponds to the birthday of Henry Dunant, founder of the Red Cross, promoter of the first Geneva Conventions for the war wounded and first Nobel Peace Prize winner. 150 years ago, he was the first to formulate the Fundamental Principles that still guide the action of the Red Cross and the Federation today: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity and Universality.
May 8 is also an opportunity to recall the importance of international humanitarian law, which aims to protect life and human dignity during armed conflicts, as well as to prevent and alleviate the suffering caused by war.
This year again, the activities of the National Societies of the Federation are focused on the fight against the coronavirus pandemic which has widened inequalities, weakened the most vulnerable populations and undermined health and social structures.
With tens of millions of volunteers in 190 National Societies, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies describes itself as “the world’s largest humanitarian organization.” “We work together before, during and after disasters and health emergencies to meet the needs of the most vulnerable and improve their lives. We provide this assistance without distinction of nationality, race, religion, class or political opinion,” the Federation states on its website.
“We are committed, in this changing world, to saving lives and changing mentalities,” she says.
In the context of the current pandemic, the IFRC launched a plan in 2021 to help vaccinate 500 million people by the end of the year. “The Covax Accelerator for equitable access does not guarantee that doses will reach the most remote areas,” the Federation’s president Francesco Rocca told reporters.
The IFRC, which brings together millions of volunteers, has been hit hard by the pandemic. “We have lost thousands” of people and tens of thousands have been infected, added Francesco Rocca.
In addition, the Federation and its members have assisted more than 100 million people with access to water and sanitation. More than 8.5 million people have been helped with mental health. And more than 79 million have received food or equipment, the president said.
“We need bold new solutions – in both international and national law – to avoid the same mistakes. These must include a strong commitment to preparedness at all levels of society, including at the community level, and equitable access to testing, vaccines and treatments for all at greatest risk,” Jagan Chapagain, the Federation’s secretary general, had stressed in response to the launch of an international treaty on pandemics.
“We must also ensure that health and emergency personnel and volunteers are supported to operate safely to deliver vital assistance and reach communities in need,” he added.
2024-09-18 11:56:54