Red Cross/Red Crescent Ideals in Action

Red Cross/Red Crescent At the end of the lesson, you will be able to: explain the structure and role of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement describe the Fundamental Principles of the RC/RC movement and their obligation to those principles analysis their role as a volunteer within the movement explain the significance of the Red Cross and Red Crescent emblems

Red Cross/Red Crescent “Would there not be some means, during a period of peace and calm, of forming Relief Societies whose object would be to have the wounded cared for in time of war by enthusiastic, devoted volunteers, fully qualified for the task?” Henry Dunant “A Memory of Solferino” 1862

Structure International Federation of Societies International Committee International Conference National Societies

International Conference Meet every 4 years Attended by representatives of governments that have signed up to the Geneva Conventions(“the rules of war”)

International Federation Created in 1919 after Word War 1 World's largest humanitarian organization 176 member Red Cross and Red Crescent societies Carries out relief operations to assist victims of disasters, and combines this with development work

International Committee Known as ICRC Private, independent Swiss organisation Protect the lives and dignity of victims of war and internal violence and to provide them with assistance It directs and coordinates the international relief activities conducted by the Movement in situations of conflict.

National Societies Meets the needs of the local population Prepare for role in armed conflict Support the work of the Federation, ICRC and other societies 97 million volunteers worldwide

Irish Red Cross Society Established in 1939 President of Ireland is the President of the Society Irish Red Cross 16 Merrion Square, Dublin2, Ireland.

Fundamental Principles “Seven fundamental principles embody the work of all Red Cross and Red Crescent staff and volunteers worldwide. Adopted in 1965, these principles define the scope of their humanitarian work, and provide a basis for promoting the ideals and humanitarian values of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.” International Federation

Fundamental Principles Humanity Impartiality Neutrality Independence Voluntary Service Unity Universality

The Emblem The red cross on a white background was formally adopted in the first Geneva Convention of 1864. The red crescent was adopted in 1876 Protected by International Humanitarian Law "indicative" (logo or identification when undertaking their normal day to day activities) "protective" (a protective device when volunteers, and the medical services of their country's armed forces, are involved in conflict.)

Humanity Impartiality Neutrality Independence Voluntary Service Unity Universality