Irish Red Cross welcomes €17.9 million in Irish Aid funding to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
June 05, 2025
The Irish Red Cross warmly welcomes today’s announcement by Tánaiste Simon Harris and Minister of State Neale Richmond of €17.9 million in Irish Aid funding to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. This support comes at a time of unprecedented humanitarian need with more than 100 ongoing conflicts in the world, and climate-related disasters becoming more frequent and intense, affecting the world’s most vulnerable communities first and hardest. This significant contribution reflects Ireland’s strong and principled leadership in global humanitarian action. It will directly support the International Red Cross Red Crescent Movement’s work in emergencies and disaster response, health and wellbeing, and in assisting migrants and displaced people—ensuring help reaches those most in need, no matter where they are.
While significant progress has been made, today, Nepal continues to face considerable humanitarian needs, particularly within marginalised and remote communities. These existing vulnerabilities are increasingly compounded by the escalating impacts of climate change, leading to more frequent and intense floods and landslides that disproportionately affect these already isolated populations.
Access to fundamental services such as healthcare, clean water, and education remains a daily struggle, often exacerbated by challenging terrain and limited infrastructure. Food insecurity and the persistent risk of disease outbreaks remain critical concerns, demanding sustained attention and tailored support to ensure that no one is left behind.
The Irish Red Cross remains committed to our partnership with the Nepal Red Cross Society, adapting our support to address these evolving needs and working collaboratively towards a more resilient and prosperous future for all the people of Nepal.
As we reflect on the past decade of partnership and progress, we extend our gratitude to everyone in Ireland who has contributed to this vital work.
Deirdre Garvey, Secretary General of the Irish Red Cross, said:
“It is unbearable to witness the scale of human suffering in Gaza today. Around the world, humanitarian needs are deepening and becoming more complex—driven by relentless conflict, the increasing frequency of climate-related disasters, and the mass displacement of millions, often compounded by leaders’ decisions to reduce funding for global aid. In this challenging landscape, I am especially proud to see Ireland step forward. This funding is a powerful and practical expression of Ireland’s values: solidarity, compassion, and an unshakable belief in dignity and humanity for all.
We are deeply grateful to the Department of Foreign Affairs for its consistent and principled support of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. At a time when humanity is failing in too many places—from the catastrophe in Gaza, to the prolonged suffering in Ukraine and other conflict zones—our world needs leaders who will uphold humanitarian principles without compromise. This support enables the Red Cross Movement to do what we do best: prepare for crises, respond rapidly, and help communities recover with dignity and resilience.”
The Irish Red Cross is a proud member of the world’s largest humanitarian network, committed to delivering neutral, independent aid in some of the world’s most difficult contexts. Today’s announcement strengthens our shared mission to uphold humanity in the face of growing global challenges.
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