FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF THE
INTERNATIONAL RED CROSS & RED CRESCENT MOVEMENT
Red Cross, Red Crecent, Red Crystal
HUMANITY
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent
Movement, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination
to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavors, in its international and
national capacity, to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it
may be found. Its purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure
respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding,
friendship, cooperation and lasting peace amongst all peoples.
IMPARTIALITY
It makes no discrimination as to nationality,
race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavors to
relieve the suffering of individuals, being guided solely by their
needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress.
NEUTRALITY
In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of
all, the Movement may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any
time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological
nature.
INDEPENDENCE
The Movement is independent. The National
Societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their
governments and subject to the laws of their respective countries, must
always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to
act in accordance with the principles of the Movement.
VOLUNTARY SERVICE
It is a voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desire for gain.
UNITY
There can be only one Red Cross or Red Crescent Society
in any one country. It must be open to all. It must carry on its
humanitarian work throughout its territory.
UNIVERSALITY
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent
Movement, in which all Societies have equal status and share equal
responsibilities and duties in helping each other, is worldwide.
