Jamaica Red Cross homepage Who are we? What do we do? Meetings and events Get involved Contact us! Links
     
 
 

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement comprises the following:

  • The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
  • The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
  • More than 178 member Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies worldwide.

    The Movement has its own web site, with detailed sections on the history of the Movement, the emblem issue, the International Conference, and Red Cross Red Crescent magazine online.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is an impartial, neutral and independent organization whose exclusively humanitarian mission is to 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. It also endeavours to prevent suffering by promoting and strengthening humanitarian law and universal humanitarian principles. Established in 1863, the ICRC is at the origin of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies works on the basis of the Principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to inspire, facilitate and promote all humanitarian activities carried out by its member National Societies to improve the situation of the most vulnerable people. Founded in 1919, the Federation directs and coordinates international assistance of the Movement to victims of natural and technological disasters, to refugees and in health emergencies. It acts as the official representative of its member Societies in the international field. It promotes cooperation between National Societies, and works to strengthen their capacity to carry out effective disaster preparedness, health and social programmes.

National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies embody the work and principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in 176 countries. National Societies act as auxiliaries to the public authorities of their own countries in the humanitarian field and provide a range of services including disaster relief, health and social programmes. During wartime, National Societies assist the affected civilian population and support the army medical services where appropriate.

Copyright © 2004 Jamaica Red Cross
                   
Jamaica Red Cross Emergency Services Jamaica Red Cross Youth Jamaica Red Cross Communication The Seven Fundamental Principles