The Seven Principles of the Irish Red Cross
In 1965, the seven Fundamental Principles were adopted to unite the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. These Principles link the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), The International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC), and 191 National Societies worldwide.
The Red Cross Red Crescent Movement is vast, but our approach is simple. Whether we are responding to a local emergency in Ireland or a global crisis, every programme we deliver is guided by these seven Principles: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality.
These principles allow us to provide help immediately to whoever needs it, wherever they are, whatever their race, political beliefs, religion, social status, or culture.
The vision of the Irish Red Cross is to be a leading humanitarian organisation, providing impartial services and support to vulnerable people communities both at home and abroad. In this capacity, we are guided by:
Humanity
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavours, 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
The Movement makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavours 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 one 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.
