In the past year, over 5 million people received relief assistance through the initiatives of the global Red Cross teams
It has been one year, two months and over three weeks since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out killing hundreds of uniformed men and civilians in both countries. Millions of people, including women, children, older people and those with disabilities, have fled, leaving everything behind. A report suggests that almost 6 million people are internally displaced in Ukraine and over 7.8 million have fled to other countries. The international armed conflict has caused displacement the scale of which Europe has not seen in decades. These families are in limbo as they try to figure out their next move — starting over in a new place or returning to uncertainty or possible danger.
During this time, the Red Cross teams have been there to answer the call — providing essential humanitarian aid to those who need it most during these challenging and uncertain times. In the past year, over 5 million people received relief assistance through the initiatives of the Global Red Cross Team which has been continuing to provide critical service to the people. With over 100,000 volunteers who are involved in the operation, the Red Cross has ensured to reach over 718,000 people providing health interventions. Not only this, $64.8 million in multipurpose cash assistance has been distributed to more than 626,000 people. Also, 66,500 people have been aided with protection, gender and inclusion activities and over 8 million people have benefitted from improved access to water. Over 367,000 people with mental health and psychosocial support have received aid. The figures (from February 2022 to September 2022) are multiplying. The effort continues beyond Ukraine’s borders too.
While organisations – including The World Red Cross – celebrated World Red Cross Day on May 8th, it is a global reminder of the immense humanitarian contributions made by the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Since its inception in 1863, the Red Cross has played a significant role in alleviating suffering, providing medical assistance, and promoting respect for human dignity during times of crisis.
Founded by Henry Dunant, a Swiss businessman who witnessed the horrors of war during the Battle of Solferino in 1859 and was moved by the suffering of wounded soldiers, envisioned a neutral and impartial organization that would provide care to all victims of armed conflicts, which materialized in 1863 with the establishment of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Geneva.
During World War I, the Red Cross served as a crucial humanitarian link, delivering medical supplies, establishing hospitals, and facilitating communication between separated families. Its unwavering dedication to relieving suffering and promoting respect for human life resonated deeply with people across borders.
The Red Cross's efforts further extend far beyond war zones. During natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis, the Red Cross swiftly mobilizes relief operations, providing emergency medical care, food, water, shelter, and other necessities to affected communities. Their volunteers work tirelessly, often risking their own lives, to bring hope and solace to those in distress.
Amidst the pages of Red Cross history, also lies the remarkable contribution of the young Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi during the Boer War in South Africa (1899-1902), where Gandhi played a significant role in organizing a volunteer medical corps under the auspices of the British Red Cross.
World leaders from Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission to Emmanuel Macron, President of France to Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada to former German Chancellor Angela Merkel have acknowledged the immense contribution of the Red Cross. For Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the UN, "The Red Cross is an indispensable partner in humanitarian response.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighted the importance of the Red Cross, stating, "The Indian Red Cross Society, as part of the Global Red Cross Movement, has been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts, offering assistance, comfort, and support to those in need across our nation."
While the Red Cross continues to play a vital role in responding to crises and its volunteers and staff work tirelessly to provide emergency assistance to the most vulnerable populations and further contribute to disaster preparedness, health promotion and community resilience, helping communities around the world build a better future, this enduring impact on global humanitarianism, serves as a reminder that compassion and empathy can transcend borders and inspire positive change for peace. Beyond borders, leaders and citizens must accept this as a shared responsibility.
(The writer is Programme Executive, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti)