Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
1. Humanity
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born on a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battle field, 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 human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, co-operation and lasting peace amongst all people.
2. Impartiality
It makes no discrimination as to the 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 case of distress.
3. 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.
4. Independence
The Movement is independent. The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their government 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.
5. Voluntary Service
It is voluntary relief movement no prompted in any manner by desire for gain.
6. Unity
There can be only one Red Cross or one Red Crescent Society in anyone country. It must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its territory.
7. 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.
Youth Red Cross has the following three principles
- Protection of Health and life - HEALTH
- Service to the sick and suffering - SERVICE
- Promotion of National and International friendship to develop the mental and moral capacities of the youth - FRIENDSHIP