Home
CATEGORIES
Business Ethics & Philanthropy World Red Cross Day and the role of Red Cross globally
World Red Cross Day and the role of Red Cross globally
World Red Cross Day and Red Crescent Day is celebrated on 8th May every year by the Red Cross society across all the countries. This day marks the birth anniversary of founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Henry Dunant, who was born on 8 May 1828. The first ‘International Red Cross Day’ was celebrated on 8th May 1948.
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is a global humanitarian network of 80 million people that helps those facing disaster, conflict and health and social problems. It consists of the International Committee of the Red Cross, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the 192 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
The movement has three main components, the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC), National Societies and International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
International Committee of the Red Cross
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is an independent and neutral non-profit organisation working towards ensuring humanitarian protection and assistance for victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence. It takes action in response to emergencies and also promotes respect for international humanitarian law and its implementation. The organisation is currently being presided over by Mirjana Spoljaric Egger.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is one of the world’s largest humanitarian networks. They support local Red Cross and Red Crescent action in more than 192 countries, bringing together almost 15 million volunteers for the good of humanity.
Indian Red Cross Society
Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) is a voluntary humanitarian organisation providing relief in times of disasters and emergencies. Having a network of over 1100 branches throughout the country, the organisation also promotes health and care of the vulnerable people and communities. It is a leading member of the International Red Cross & Red Crescent Movement.
The Mission of the Indian Red Cross is to inspire, encourage and initiate at all times all forms of humanitarian activities so that human suffering can be minimized and even prevented and thus contribute to creating more congenial climate for peace.
IRCS was established in 1920 under the Indian Red Cross Society Act and incorporated under Parliament Act XV of 1920. The IRCS has 36 State / Union Territories Branches with their more than 1100 districts and sub district branches. Honourable President of India is the President and Hon’ble Union Health Minister is the Chairman of this Society.
Role of Red Cross in Sudan
Currently resource-rich North African country Sudan is experiencing an armed conflict between forces loyal to two rival generals. The flight, which started on 15th April, is happening between the Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo for control over the nation. As per figures from the United Nations, the ongoing conflict has left hundreds of people dead, thousands wounded and innumerable families displaced.
In the last week of April, Red Cross aid was flown into Sudan for the first time since fighting broke out. As per a statement from International Committee of the Red Cross, this comprised eight tonnes of medical aid, which is expected to be a support for Sudan’s hard-hit medical facilities.
