The Fundamental Principles of The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement

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 alleviates human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purposes are to protect life and health and ensure respect for the human being promotes mutual understanding, friendship, co-operation and lasting peace amongst all peoples.

IMPARTIALITY

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement 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 International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial religious or ideological nature.

INDEPENDENCE

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent 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 be carrying 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 world wide.