The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is a global humanitarian organization that acts as a federation of national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies from different countries. Established in 1919, the IFRC is a worldwide network of these national societies and serves as a coordinating body, facilitating collaboration and support among its members.
IFRC's main objective is to alleviate human suffering and promote the well-being of vulnerable individuals and communities affected by natural disasters, armed conflicts, health emergencies, and other crises. It operates through its member societies by providing technical expertise, financial aid, and capacity-building support to strengthen local responses to emergencies.
The IFRC plays a vital role in disaster response and humanitarian efforts worldwide, working closely with governments, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders in emergency management. It provides guidance and resources to its member societies in the form of training, planning, and coordination, enabling them to deliver effective assistance and relief operations.
In addition to its disaster response activities, the IFRC also focuses on health promotion, disaster risk reduction, and community resilience. It advocates for vulnerable populations, promoting inclusive approaches and ensuring that the most marginalized individuals and communities are not left behind during emergencies.
The IFRC embodies the fundamental principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, including humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. It operates with the aim of preserving human dignity, preventing and alleviating human suffering, and promoting peace and humanitarian values on a global scale.
