Respect for principled humanitarian action is essential

Glad to see our Resolution on #PrincipledHumanitarianAction adopted! Having served with the @ICRC for almost 15 years, from delegate to director, the Fundamental Principles of the RCRC Movement have always been my guiding star, offering orientation, confidence and identity in an increasingly chaotic, confrontational and violent world. For some reflections on the matter, see my latest interview in the International Review of the Red Cross: ➡️bit.ly/3UsgQJT

While rooted in IHL and widely accepted for decades, the #FundamentalPrinciples of humanitarian action— humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence have been increasingly questioned, criticized and politicized, notably in highly polarized contexts, where #neutrality is often misconstrued as siding with the adverse party. "If you are not with us, you are against us". It is high time to see a renewed commitment to the fundamental principles meant to preserve #humanity in war, and help humanitarian actors #access and alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable, wherever they may be, regardless of their side, political affiliation, gender, race... Principled humanitarian action may not always deliver immediate or visible outcomes but politicizing and undermining these key principles only makes it harder to deliver.

Today, I addressed our International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies - IFRC and The Standing Commission of the Red Cross and Red Crescent where I shared lessons from our past and the importance of our fundamental principles. In 1919, the League of Red Cross Societies was founded by Henry Davidson of the American Red Cross, who brought together the societies of France, Great Britain, Italy, Japan and the United States. Their vision was to harness the expertise gained during wartime to respond to humanitarian needs in times of peace. From this vision of cooperation, the five founding National Societies have grown to 191 and flourished in every corner of the globe.  Today, the IFRC is a diverse network—in gender, ages, and cultures—that reflects the communities we serve. For the past 60 years, our work has been guided by our fundamental principles. These principles are more crucial than ever as we navigate a world facing unprecedented challenges—climate disasters, health crises, geopolitical tensions and protracted conflicts.  Today, my plea to our Red Cross and Red Crescent leadership was that our fundamental principles must serve as our compass—particularly in these turbulent times. The world needs the Red Cross and Red Crescent more than ever, and I am proud to lead a network that showcases the humanity and accountability our principles demand.  

Protecting civilian population and preventing gender-based violence against women, girls and children is critical during such a global unprecedented crisis and global impunity regarding human rights, humanitarian principles and basic rights to life, food, health, water, education and the most importantly the right to peace, freedom and dignity.

Ultimately, lasting peace in the Middle East requires commitment, empathy, and an acknowledgment of shared humanity. Promoting cooperative engagements and sincere dialogues around core issues will enable the region to heal and thrive, laying the groundwork for a transformative era. In this journey, let us strive to illuminate the path toward justice and progress, shaping a Middle East that reflects the hopes and rights of all its citizens.

As World War II was about to end in 1945, nations were in ruins, and the world wanted peace. Representatives of 50 countries gathered at the United Nations Conference on International Organization in San Francisco, California from 25 April to 26 June 1945. For the next two months, they proceeded to draft and then sign the UN Charter, which created a new international organization, the United Nations, which, it was hoped, would prevent another world war like the one they had just lived through. The United Nations officially came into existence on 24 October 1945, when the Charter had been ratified by a majority of signatories. Today the role of the UN is crucial in the peacebuilding process, creating a forum to discuss and react internationally to different issues.

🔴🏥 International Red Cross Day, celebrated on May 8, honors founder Henry Dunant's birth in 1828. A symbol of global volunteering, Dunant won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901. The day raises awareness about humanitarian aid. 🌍 The movement, born after the Battle of Solferino in Italy, operates globally, aiding in wars and emergencies. It comprises the ICRC, the International Federation, and 189 National Societies. 🇧🇷 In Brazil, the Red Cross began in 1907 and expanded during WWI, establishing volunteer groups and a Nursing School in 1916. 🌐 Operating in over 192 countries, the Red Cross protects vulnerable populations, promoting neutrality and assisting regardless of background. ⚖️ Guided by seven principles including Humanity, Impartiality, and Voluntarism, the Red Cross values unity and universality. 🎉 International Red Cross Day celebrates the humanitarian spirit, honoring local heroes with the theme "Everything we do comes from the heart." #SimpleWayEurope #BusinessExpansion #Internationalization #EmergingMarkets #Diversification #CulturalDifferences #GlobalExpansion #worldredcrossday

🌐 Europe is the most peaceful region in the world, and is still home to eight of the ten most peaceful countries. It has been the most peaceful region every year since the start of the Global Peace Index.

In a world marked by confusion and turbulence, it’s essential to pause and reflect on the principles of peace and progress. Our friend and colleague Tom Fletcher delivered a powerful TED talk at Stormont, envisioning the peace processes of the future and how we can build a more united, compassionate world. Now, as Tom steps into his role as the UN Humanitarian Chief, his vision feels more vital than ever. Take a moment to watch his talk and consider how we can contribute to a brighter, more peaceful future: https://lnkd.in/e35vvys5