ICRC - International Committee of the Red Cross

Published purpose

The International Committee of the Red Cross’ (ICRC) primary mission is to help protect the lives and dignity of people affected by conflict and other situations of violence. The ICRC provides assistance and works to prevent further suffering by promoting and strengthening international humanitarian law and universal humanitarian principles. The ICRC works with local Red Cross and Red Crescent national society staff and volunteers to implement its protection and assistance programmes worldwide. With the support of GAC and other donors, the ICRC’s humanitarian operations aim to provide protection, emergency relief and other essential services to people affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence, as well as to promote respect for international humanitarian law. Project activities include: (1) protecting and assisting people affected by conflict and violence, through providing medical care, income support, and food assistance; (2) ensuring that international humanitarian law is respected in the treatment of civilians not taking part in hostilities, as well as for detainees; (3) promoting humanitarian principles (neutrality, impartiality and independence) among all stakeholders; and (4) participating with all stakeholders in negotiating safe access to populations in need.