The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has warned that the erosion of humanitarian values and safeguards is putting countless lives at risk. This is especially across conflict zones and crisis areas worldwide.
Stay informed on nonprofit news, grants & jobs
Join sector leaders and grantmakers who read Charity Journal.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
ICRC: Erosion of humanitarian values puts lives at risk
Charity Journal ratings are independent assessments based on publicly available data. Organisations may submit corrections to our editorial team.
UN agency decries dangerous pattern of disregard for humanitarian law
In a statement marking this year’s World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, observed on 8 May, the ICRC expressed profound alarm over the issue as a dangerous pattern of disregard for international humanitarian law.
The organisation revealed that too many of its colleagues have been killed, some while driving ambulances, working in hospitals, or responding to emergencies. Others were killed while helping people within their own communities.
“These deaths are not isolated tragedies. They are part of a broader pattern of disregard for international humanitarian law, for the protection owed to medical and humanitarian personnel, and for the rules that help preserve human dignity in some of the darkest times,” the ICRC said.
The ICRC further noted that when attackers target those who care for the wounded, evacuate the injured or keep health services running, the loss extends far beyond individual lives.
Despite the growing dangers, Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and staff continue to stand with people in need. This is across armed conflicts, disasters and other crises worldwide, often in the same places where they live, and face the same hazards as their neighbours.
Respect for emblems, rules essential, ICRC tells global movement
The ICRC described their presence as a powerful expression of humanity in action.
On this year’s World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, the organisation called on all those with influence and responsibility. This is to uphold the protections that civilians, medical personnel, humanitarian workers, and communities depend on.
“Respect for the emblems, for humanitarian rules and principles, is therefore essential,” the ICRC stated.
The organisation also addressed its colleagues across the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
Meanwhile, three of the world’s leading health and humanitarian agencies on Sunday condemned the international community’s failure to protect healthcare workers. This includes hospitals and patients in conflict zones.