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The Swiss Red Cross. In the name of

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<strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

<strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>name</strong> <strong>of</strong> humanity<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>


<strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

Rainmattstrasse 10<br />

CH-3001 Bern<br />

Phone 031 387 71 11<br />

Fax 031 387 71 22<br />

info@redcross.ch, www.redcross.ch


SUMMARY<br />

1. Origin <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement ............................................3<br />

1.1 Battle <strong>of</strong> Solferino ...................................................................................................................3<br />

1.2 <strong>The</strong> birth <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> ....................................................................................................4<br />

1.3 Henry Dunant – <strong>the</strong> founder <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Movement ...........................................5<br />

1.4 <strong>The</strong> emblem ............................................................................................................................. 7<br />

2. <strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> ........................................................................................................11<br />

2.1 Founding and development <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC ........................................................................... 11<br />

2.2 SRC organization ..................................................................................................................15<br />

2.3 Cantonal associations ..........................................................................................................16<br />

2.4 Corporate members ............................................................................................................ 17<br />

2.5 <strong>The</strong> institutions .......................................................................................................................22<br />

2.6 SRC Headquarters ................................................................................................................25<br />

2.7 Voluntary work/youth work ...............................................................................................26<br />

2.8 Strategy and higher aims ...................................................................................................29<br />

2.9 <strong>The</strong> SRC as a partner <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> authorities .............................................................. 33<br />

3. Tasks and activities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC .................................................................................. 35<br />

3.1 Health ......................................................................................................................................35<br />

3.2 <strong>In</strong>tegration ..............................................................................................................................37<br />

3.3 Rescue .................................................................................................................................... 38<br />

3.4 <strong>In</strong>ternational commitment ..................................................................................................40<br />

4. <strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement .......................................... 45<br />

4.1 <strong>In</strong>ternational Committee <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> (ICRC) ........................................................ 46<br />

4.2 <strong>In</strong>ternational Humanitarian Law .......................................................................................47<br />

4.3 <strong>In</strong>ternational Federation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Societies (IFRC) ................. 48<br />

4.4 National <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Societies ...........................................................51<br />

5. <strong>The</strong> seven Fundamental Principles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> .........................................53


1<br />

1.1 BATTLE OF SOLFERINO<br />

A battle…<br />

� 1859: Battle <strong>of</strong> Solferino (Italy)<br />

� Dunant organizes volunteers to help<br />

<strong>the</strong> wounded – regardless <strong>of</strong><br />

nationality<br />

� 1862: Dunant publishes ‘A Memory <strong>of</strong><br />

Solferino’<br />

…and its consequences<br />

� 1863: Founding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ICRC<br />

� 1864: First Geneva Convention<br />

<strong>In</strong> 1859 <strong>the</strong> Kingdom <strong>of</strong> Piedmont-Sardinia<br />

joined forces with France to force Austria<br />

out <strong>of</strong> nor<strong>the</strong>rn Italy. <strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong> battles <strong>of</strong><br />

Magenta and Solferino <strong>the</strong> allied forces <strong>of</strong><br />

Piedmont-Sardinia and France claimed victory.<br />

<strong>The</strong> battle <strong>of</strong> Solferino, a few kilometres<br />

to <strong>the</strong> south <strong>of</strong> Lake Garda, on 24 June<br />

1859, was one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> bloodiest battles that<br />

had ever taken place at that time. More<br />

than 40,000 soldiers and <strong>of</strong>fi cers were<br />

killed or wounded.<br />

A business trip brought <strong>the</strong> young Geneva<br />

businessman Henry Dunant to Solferino by<br />

chance. He had come to <strong>the</strong> battlefi eld to<br />

seek a business meeting with Napoleon III.<br />

When he realized that thousands <strong>of</strong> injured<br />

soldiers were left lying where <strong>the</strong>y fell without<br />

any assistance, he brought volunteers<br />

from <strong>the</strong> surrounding villages and <strong>the</strong> town<br />

<strong>of</strong> Castiglione to help <strong>the</strong> wounded.<br />

Dunant and <strong>the</strong> volunteers who responded<br />

to his call for help made no distinction<br />

between <strong>the</strong> soldiers, regardless <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

nationality. This attitude was described in<br />

<strong>the</strong> motto <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> women <strong>of</strong> Castiglione:<br />

‘Tutti fratelli’ (Italian for ‘all are bro<strong>the</strong>rs’).<br />

<strong>In</strong> 1862 Dunant described <strong>the</strong>se events in<br />

‘A Memory <strong>of</strong> Solferino’. <strong>In</strong> his book he<br />

demanded an international convention to<br />

protect war victims. He also called for <strong>the</strong><br />

creation <strong>of</strong> relief organizations in all countries.<br />

<strong>The</strong>se would train volunteers during<br />

peacetime to provide support for <strong>the</strong><br />

medical services <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> armed forces during<br />

wartime. This provided <strong>the</strong> impetus for<br />

<strong>the</strong> founding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> worldwide <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> &<br />

<strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement.<br />

3


1.2 THE BIRTH OF THE RED CROSS<br />

On 17 February 1863 fi ve people, including<br />

Henry Dunant and General Guillaume<br />

Henri Dufour, met in Geneva to set up <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational Committee for Relief to <strong>the</strong><br />

Wounded – later to become known as <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational Committee <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

(ICRC).<br />

That autumn, representatives from 16 countries<br />

ga<strong>the</strong>red for an international congress<br />

in Geneva. This congress took <strong>the</strong> decision<br />

on 29 October 1863 that a relief society<br />

should be set up in every country and that<br />

<strong>the</strong> volunteers and <strong>the</strong> wounded should be<br />

given neutral status on <strong>the</strong> battlefi eld. <strong>The</strong><br />

4<br />

© ICRC<br />

red cross was chosen as a common protection<br />

symbol – <strong>the</strong> inverted colours <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> fl ag. One year later, at an international<br />

conference on 22 August 1864 convened<br />

on <strong>the</strong> initiative <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Federal<br />

Council, <strong>the</strong> fi rst Geneva Convention<br />

was signed by 12 European countries: <strong>the</strong><br />

‘Geneva Convention for <strong>the</strong> Amelioration<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Condition <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Wounded and Sick<br />

in Armed Forces in <strong>the</strong> Field’.<br />

By 1866, 17 European countries had <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

own national societies for <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong><br />

wounded soldiers.<br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> founding committee, Geneva 1863


1.3 HENRY DUNANT – THE FOUNDER<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

OF THE RED CROSS MOVEMENT<br />

* 8 May 1828 in Geneva<br />

1862: ‘A Memory <strong>of</strong> Solferino’<br />

1863: Founding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ICRC<br />

1867: Dunant leaves Geneva<br />

(bankrupt)<br />

1895: <strong>The</strong> founder <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>,<br />

believed dead, is ‘rediscovered’<br />

1901: First Nobel Peace Prize<br />

† 30 October 1910 in Heiden<br />

(Appenzell Outer Rhodes Canton)<br />

1948: Henry Dunant’s birthday<br />

becomes <strong>the</strong> World <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong><br />

Crescent Day (8 May)<br />

Henry Dunant was born in Geneva on<br />

8 May 1828. Even as a young man, out<br />

<strong>of</strong> religious motives he was committed to<br />

social work.<br />

While on a business trip he came by chance<br />

upon <strong>the</strong> horrors <strong>of</strong> war after <strong>the</strong> battle <strong>of</strong><br />

Solferino. He called upon volunteers from<br />

among <strong>the</strong> local people to help and care<br />

for <strong>the</strong> wounded – regardless <strong>of</strong> which<br />

side <strong>the</strong>y were fi ghting on. Three years<br />

later he published his book ‘A Memory <strong>of</strong><br />

Solferino’. This book provided <strong>the</strong> impetus<br />

for a unique worldwide movement and<br />

humanitarian revolution that started with<br />

<strong>the</strong> founding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ICRC in 1863.<br />

Over <strong>the</strong> next few years Dunant travelled<br />

throughout Europe working fervently and<br />

successfully on <strong>the</strong> founding <strong>of</strong> National<br />

Henry Dunant at <strong>the</strong> time <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> was founded.<br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Societies. However, as a businessman<br />

he proved less successful. When<br />

<strong>the</strong> companies he ran went bankrupt in<br />

<strong>the</strong> late 1860s, Dunant was ostracized by<br />

Geneva society and he was forced to leave<br />

Geneva and <strong>the</strong> ICRC. He became isolated<br />

and faded into obscurity, until he was even<br />

believed dead.<br />

<strong>In</strong> 1895 <strong>the</strong> journalist Georg Baumberger<br />

tracked him down in <strong>the</strong> local hospital in<br />

Heiden in Appenzell. He drew <strong>the</strong> public’s<br />

attention to <strong>the</strong> founder <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong>. Dunant subsequently received many<br />

awards and distinctions. <strong>In</strong> 1901 he was<br />

awarded <strong>the</strong> fi rst Nobel Peace Prize for his<br />

work.<br />

Henry Dunant passed away on 30 October<br />

1910 at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 82. He is buried in<br />

<strong>the</strong> Sihlfeld cemetery in Zurich.<br />

5


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong>, <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>, and <strong>Red</strong> Crescent fl ags adorn a bridge in Geneva to mark World <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Day.<br />

Why is World <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Day celebrated on 8 May?<br />

<strong>The</strong> origins <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> World <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Day<br />

date back to <strong>the</strong> 1920s. When Czechoslovakia<br />

was torn by internal political tensions<br />

in 1922, <strong>the</strong> National <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Society<br />

appealed to <strong>the</strong> various parties to hold a<br />

three-day ceasefi re for Easter.<br />

This initiative was known as <strong>the</strong> ‘<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

Peace’. It made a signifi cant impression<br />

on <strong>the</strong> public. <strong>The</strong> idea developed that a<br />

day <strong>of</strong> peace should be held every year.<br />

However, <strong>the</strong> National <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Socie-<br />

6<br />

ties were sceptical. It was not until <strong>the</strong><br />

16 th <strong>In</strong>ternational Conference in London in<br />

1938 that a resolution was passed to institute<br />

a ‘day <strong>of</strong> peace’. However, on account<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Second World War it was only celebrated<br />

throughout <strong>the</strong> world for <strong>the</strong> fi rst<br />

time in 1948 as an acknowledgement <strong>of</strong><br />

peace in <strong>the</strong> world.<br />

<strong>The</strong> 8 May was chosen as it was <strong>the</strong> birthday<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> founder <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>, Henry<br />

Dunant. Since 1984 it has been known as<br />

World <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Day.<br />

© IFRC


1.4 THE EMBLEM<br />

Ever since <strong>the</strong> fi rst Geneva Convention in<br />

1864, <strong>the</strong> red cross on a white background<br />

has been <strong>the</strong> protective symbol for hospitals,<br />

ambulances and <strong>the</strong> medical personnel<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> armed forces. <strong>The</strong> red cross emblem<br />

was devised by inverting <strong>the</strong> colours <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> fl ag. <strong>In</strong> 1878 <strong>the</strong> red crescent was<br />

added. It has been an <strong>of</strong>fi cial protective<br />

symbol since 1929.<br />

<strong>The</strong> red lion was solely used by <strong>the</strong> Persian<br />

National <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Society. After <strong>the</strong> fall<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Shah in 1979, <strong>the</strong> Islamic Republic <strong>of</strong><br />

Iran gave up using it and has been using<br />

<strong>the</strong> red crescent as an emblem ever since.<br />

<strong>The</strong> protective symbol (or emblem) has two<br />

meanings:<br />

1. <strong>In</strong> times <strong>of</strong> war it protects <strong>the</strong> victims, <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong> staff, and medical personnel <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

armed forces and <strong>the</strong> civil defence corps,<br />

toge<strong>the</strong>r with <strong>the</strong>ir quarters, equipment<br />

and vehicles (protective symbol).<br />

2. <strong>In</strong> times <strong>of</strong> peace it serves as information:<br />

it shows that a person, a building or<br />

a specifi c object has a direct connection to<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>. However, in such cases a<br />

smaller emblem is used.<br />

Possible uses <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> red crystal<br />

Out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 186 National Societies, 146 use<br />

<strong>the</strong> red cross, 39 use <strong>the</strong> red crescent, while<br />

Israel uses <strong>the</strong> red Star <strong>of</strong> David within <strong>the</strong><br />

country.<br />

Since 2006 <strong>the</strong> red crystal has been <strong>the</strong><br />

third <strong>of</strong>fi cial emblem. This made it possible,<br />

for example, to accept <strong>the</strong> Israeli relief<br />

organization Magen David Adom in <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Movement.<br />

Even though <strong>the</strong> red crystal has been <strong>of</strong>fi -<br />

cially introduced as <strong>the</strong> third emblem, <strong>the</strong><br />

red cross remains <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cial emblem <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

SRC and <strong>the</strong> ICRC.<br />

7


Misuse <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> emblem<br />

<strong>The</strong> rules governing <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> red cross<br />

as a protective symbol and emblem are laid<br />

down in <strong>the</strong> Geneva Conventions. Many<br />

countries, including Switzerland, have also<br />

included <strong>the</strong>se rules in <strong>the</strong>ir national legislations<br />

so that any misuse can be prosecuted<br />

and punished.<br />

<strong>The</strong> symbols <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> red cross, <strong>the</strong> red crescent<br />

and <strong>the</strong> red crystal serve to protect<br />

<strong>the</strong> victims <strong>of</strong> armed confl icts. <strong>The</strong>y can be<br />

used to mark installations, equipment, vehicles,<br />

personnel and medical services, but<br />

in particular <strong>the</strong> wounded and <strong>the</strong> sick in<br />

hospitals. <strong>The</strong>y may only be used by organizations<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> or <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

and <strong>the</strong> medical services <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> armed<br />

forces and <strong>the</strong> civil defence corps.<br />

<strong>In</strong> Switzerland <strong>the</strong> emblem and <strong>name</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> is protected by a federal law.<br />

This law also lays down <strong>the</strong> sanctions to be<br />

applied in <strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong> misuse <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>name</strong><br />

and emblem <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>. Misuse can<br />

result in fi nes <strong>of</strong> up to CHF 10,000 or even<br />

a prison sentence.<br />

It does happen that <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong> or confusable graphic variations are<br />

used for advertising purposes or as organization<br />

logos. However, this <strong>of</strong>ten occurs<br />

out <strong>of</strong> ignorance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> law. Misuse is most<br />

common in <strong>the</strong> health sector (medicinal<br />

products, hospitals, ambulances).<br />

8


© SRC BTS<br />

© Ueli Hiltpold<br />

© SSB/ASS<br />

© SRC, Murat Türemis © Thomas Wütrich © Rega


2<br />

�<br />

�<br />

THE SWISS RED CROSS<br />

2.1 FOUNDING AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE SRC<br />

�<br />

17 July 1866: <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

founded in Bern<br />

Founders: General Guillaume Henri<br />

Dufour and <strong>the</strong> federal councillor<br />

Jakob Dubs<br />

Purpose: to help <strong>the</strong> medical services<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> armed forces and<br />

provide welfare for <strong>the</strong> families for<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essional soldiers<br />

On <strong>the</strong> initiative <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Committee<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and under <strong>the</strong><br />

patronage <strong>of</strong> General Guillaume Henri<br />

Dufour and <strong>the</strong> federal councillor Jakob<br />

Dubs, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> was founded<br />

in Bern on 17 July 1866 with <strong>the</strong> following<br />

purpose: ‘<strong>The</strong> purpose <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Society<br />

is to help <strong>the</strong> medical services <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

armed forces with all <strong>the</strong> resources it has<br />

available, and act as a welfare service for<br />

<strong>the</strong> families <strong>of</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>essional soldiers in <strong>the</strong><br />

event <strong>of</strong> war.’<br />

<strong>In</strong> its fi rst relief operation in <strong>the</strong> winter <strong>of</strong><br />

1871, <strong>the</strong> SRC provided care and assistance<br />

for 85,000 soldiers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> French General<br />

Bourbaki’s army that were interned in Switzerland<br />

(Franco-Prussian War).<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC consolidated its structures at <strong>the</strong><br />

end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 19th century when it founded<br />

<strong>the</strong> regional and cantonal associations,<br />

set up <strong>the</strong> Central Secretariat in Bern and<br />

founded <strong>the</strong> Lindenh<strong>of</strong> Hospital and nursing<br />

school in Bern. First aid and rescue<br />

operations were taken over by organizations<br />

that joined <strong>the</strong> SRC as corporate<br />

members (SMSV, SSB, SLRG, etc.).<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC, founded in 1866, undertook its fi rst major mission during <strong>the</strong><br />

Franco-Prussian War in 1870–71. An excerpt from <strong>the</strong> Bourbaki Panorama<br />

shows a cart carrying wounded soldiers and <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> volunteers.<br />

11<br />

© Bourbaki Panorama Lucerne


Soldiers <strong>of</strong> Bourbaki’s army in <strong>the</strong> Eglise des Terreaux, Lausanne, 1871. <strong>In</strong> early February 1871 more than 85,000 soldiers from General Bourbaki’s army<br />

fl ed to Switzerland. <strong>The</strong> SRC provided care and assistance for <strong>the</strong> troops.<br />

<strong>The</strong> importance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC both nationally<br />

and internationally was bolstered by <strong>the</strong><br />

two World Wars.<br />

Over <strong>the</strong> years <strong>the</strong> civil element increasingly<br />

became more important than <strong>the</strong><br />

military medical element. Soon after it was<br />

founded, <strong>the</strong> SRC was not only training laypersons<br />

as medical workers for <strong>the</strong> armed<br />

forces but also pr<strong>of</strong>essional nurses to care<br />

for <strong>the</strong> sick and injured in times <strong>of</strong> peace.<br />

New tasks have constantly been added<br />

right up to <strong>the</strong> present day: help for <strong>the</strong><br />

socially deprived with or without a migration<br />

background (refugees, sans-papiers),<br />

care and nursing in <strong>the</strong> family, blood transfusion<br />

service, training for medical pr<strong>of</strong>essionals,<br />

relief work abroad, development<br />

cooperation.<br />

12<br />

1866–1914:<br />

Growth and consolidation<br />

<strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong> early years <strong>the</strong> SRC grew slowly and<br />

was faced with a large number <strong>of</strong> diffi culties.<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC faced its fi rst test in a relief operation<br />

in February and March 1871 when it<br />

cared for 85,000 soldiers from <strong>the</strong> French<br />

army under General Bourbaki who were<br />

interned in Switzerland.<br />

<strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong> 1880s <strong>the</strong> founding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

Army Medical Corps (1881) and <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

Samaritans (1888) fi nally speeded up <strong>the</strong><br />

development <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC.<br />

© ICRC


A decisive factor in consolidating <strong>the</strong> SRC’s<br />

structures at <strong>the</strong> turn <strong>of</strong> that century was<br />

<strong>the</strong> founding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> regional and cantonal<br />

SRC associations and <strong>the</strong> establishment <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC Central Secretariat, which acted<br />

as a coordination <strong>of</strong>fi ce between <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Samaritans and <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Army Medical Corps.<br />

Ano<strong>the</strong>r milestone was <strong>the</strong> founding <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> Lindenh<strong>of</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> nursing school in<br />

Bern. Up until <strong>the</strong>n <strong>the</strong> training <strong>of</strong> nurses<br />

had been in <strong>the</strong> hands <strong>of</strong> religious organizations.<br />

Now anyone was free to train as a<br />

nurse regardless <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir religious affi liation.<br />

<strong>The</strong> fi rst missions abroad were in <strong>the</strong> early<br />

20 th century. <strong>The</strong> SRC sent a delegation <strong>of</strong><br />

doctors to South Africa to help in <strong>the</strong> Boer<br />

War, provided emergency assistance to<br />

<strong>the</strong> victims <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> earthquake in <strong>the</strong> Sicilian<br />

town <strong>of</strong> Messina and helped in <strong>the</strong> reconstruction<br />

programme.<br />

SRC child relief during <strong>the</strong> Second<br />

World War: children were innocent<br />

and vulnerable victims <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> brutality <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Second World<br />

War. <strong>The</strong> SRC took care <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m<br />

in around 30 European countries<br />

and some were temporarily<br />

evacuated to Switzerland.<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cial role <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC in <strong>the</strong> service<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> armed forces and to promote nursing<br />

was laid down in <strong>the</strong> federal decree <strong>of</strong><br />

1903. This fur<strong>the</strong>r consolidated <strong>the</strong> role <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC in Switzerland.<br />

1914–1945:<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC establishes itself<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC’s work during <strong>the</strong> two World<br />

Wars streng<strong>the</strong>ned its position and led it<br />

to broaden its range <strong>of</strong> services, giving it<br />

greater status both nationally and internationally.<br />

First World War 1914–1918: <strong>The</strong> SRC<br />

supported <strong>the</strong> mobilized troops with social<br />

and material resources. It also took charge<br />

<strong>of</strong> repatriating 80,000 wounded soldiers<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> belligerent States in specially equipped<br />

ambulance trains. O<strong>the</strong>r noteworthy<br />

actions are <strong>the</strong> fi ght against Spanish<br />

fl u and <strong>the</strong> organization <strong>of</strong> recuperation<br />

stays for thousands <strong>of</strong> foreign troops.<br />

13


<strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong> aftermath <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> First World War:<br />

food supplies to Vienna in 1919 and to <strong>the</strong><br />

famine-stricken people <strong>of</strong> Russia in 1922,<br />

and an SRC hospital expedition to Tsaritsyn<br />

(Stalingrad, now called Volgograd) in collaboration<br />

with <strong>the</strong> Nansen Mission.<br />

Second World War 1939–1945: Within<br />

Switzerland <strong>the</strong> SRC carried out <strong>the</strong> following<br />

tasks: supporting <strong>the</strong> armed forces<br />

and <strong>the</strong> civilian population with personnel<br />

and supplies, organizing a blood transfusion<br />

service and promoting <strong>the</strong> training<br />

<strong>of</strong> nurses. <strong>In</strong>ternationally: child relief (fostering<br />

<strong>of</strong> 180,000 child evacuees from<br />

war zones), aid programmes in favour <strong>of</strong><br />

children in almost all countries <strong>of</strong> Europe,<br />

assistance for <strong>the</strong> civilians and military personnel<br />

interned in Switzerland.<br />

After 1945: Boom period<br />

After <strong>the</strong> Second World War <strong>the</strong> SRC experienced<br />

a boom. Its range <strong>of</strong> activities was<br />

extended and its internal structures were<br />

reorganized. <strong>The</strong> focus shifted more and<br />

more from helping <strong>the</strong> military to helping<br />

civilians.<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC made a major contribution to setting<br />

up <strong>the</strong> health-care and social services<br />

in Switzerland. It was in charge <strong>of</strong> setting<br />

Uprising in Hungary in 1956:<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC helps Hungarian refugees to reach refugee camps in Austria<br />

by transporting <strong>the</strong>m from <strong>the</strong> border in <strong>Swiss</strong> postal buses.<br />

14<br />

up and running <strong>the</strong> blood transfusion service<br />

and promoting non-hospital nursing<br />

and ergo<strong>the</strong>rapy. <strong>The</strong> SRC became increasingly<br />

involved in <strong>the</strong> socio-medical sector,<br />

with a driver service, home visits, and <strong>the</strong><br />

training <strong>of</strong> nurses.<br />

And <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> even played a<br />

considerable role in <strong>the</strong> increasing pr<strong>of</strong>essionalization<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> health-care sector<br />

and rescue services (SSB, SLRG, Rega,<br />

REDOG).<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC also helps asylum-seekers and<br />

migrants in Switzerland and provides<br />

disaster relief and reconstruction assistance<br />

abroad.<br />

<strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong> development cooperation sector<br />

it is a partner <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> government’s<br />

Agency for Development and Cooperation<br />

(SDC) and <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Federation <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Societies. Within<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Movement it is among those National<br />

Societies that conduct <strong>the</strong> most missions<br />

abroad.


2.2 SRC ORGANIZATION<br />

No o<strong>the</strong>r relief organization combines such<br />

a wide variety <strong>of</strong> strengths in <strong>the</strong> health,<br />

integration and rescue sectors as <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>. <strong>The</strong> SRC Group comprises 24<br />

cantonal associations along with fi ve corporate<br />

members (active members), four<br />

institutions, <strong>the</strong> SRC Headquarters and <strong>the</strong><br />

Secretariat <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> cantonal associations.<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC is an association registered under<br />

civil law and amenable to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Civil<br />

Code. Similar to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Confederation<br />

itself, <strong>the</strong> SRC has a federal structure and a<br />

decentralized organization.<br />

SRC cantonal<br />

associations<br />

24 cantonal<br />

associations<br />

National<br />

Conference<br />

National<br />

Conference<br />

Executive<br />

Committee<br />

National<br />

Secretariat <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

cantonal assoc.<br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Assembly<br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

Council<br />

SRC<br />

Headquarters<br />

· <strong>In</strong>ternational<br />

Cooperation<br />

· Health and<br />

integration<br />

· Centres <strong>of</strong><br />

competence<br />

Associative<br />

work and<br />

support activities<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Assembly<br />

<strong>The</strong> highest body <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC is <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong> Assembly, comprising 97 delegates<br />

from <strong>the</strong> SRC’s member organizations (64<br />

representatives <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> cantonal associations;<br />

33 representatives <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> corporate<br />

members).<br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Council<br />

<strong>The</strong> highest management body <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC<br />

is <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Council which has a maximum<br />

<strong>of</strong> nine members. <strong>The</strong> president chairs<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Council and represents <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> in external relations.<br />

MCC<br />

<strong>In</strong>stitutions<br />

Lindenh<strong>of</strong><br />

hospital<br />

and nursing<br />

school<br />

SRC<br />

Blood Transfusion<br />

Service<br />

SRC<br />

Humanitarian<br />

Foundation<br />

SRC Rescue Team<br />

15<br />

SRC corporate<br />

members<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Samaritans<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Air-Rescue<br />

Association (Rega)<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Life-Saving<br />

Association<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Disaster<br />

Dogs Association<br />

(REDOG)<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Army<br />

Medical<br />

Association


2.3 CANTONAL ASSOCIATIONS<br />

Similar to <strong>the</strong> federal structure <strong>of</strong> Switzerland,<br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC is a decentralized organization,<br />

with 24 cantonal associations<br />

throughout Switzerland.<br />

<strong>The</strong> cantonal associations rely on <strong>the</strong> commitment<br />

<strong>of</strong> more than 2,000 staff and over<br />

10,000 volunteers.<br />

<strong>The</strong> 24 cantonal associations adjust <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

work to <strong>the</strong> needs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> local population<br />

in <strong>the</strong>ir catchment area. <strong>The</strong>y are independent<br />

associations.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y mainly provide services in <strong>the</strong> health<br />

promotion, support and integration sectors.<br />

<strong>The</strong> services are intended for <strong>the</strong><br />

elderly and <strong>the</strong> sick, <strong>the</strong> housebound and<br />

16<br />

<strong>the</strong>ir family carers, families with children,<br />

and children and teenagers.<br />

For issues <strong>of</strong> nationwide signifi cance, <strong>the</strong><br />

cantonal associations work toge<strong>the</strong>r.<br />

<strong>The</strong>ir collaboration is coordinated by <strong>the</strong><br />

National Conference <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Cantonal <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong> Associations and <strong>the</strong> National Conference<br />

<strong>of</strong> Cantonal Association Managers.<br />

<strong>The</strong> governing body <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> cantonal<br />

associations is <strong>the</strong> Executive Committee.<br />

<strong>The</strong> cantonal associations have <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

National Secretariat in Bern. <strong>The</strong> National<br />

Secretariat <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> cantonal associations<br />

carries out <strong>the</strong> organizational and administrative<br />

work for <strong>the</strong> governing bodies <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> cantonal associations.


2.4 CORPORATE MEMBERS<br />

<strong>In</strong> addition to its 24 cantonal associations,<br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC has fi ve corporate members. <strong>The</strong>se<br />

corporate members are national organizations<br />

that are specialized in rescue operations,<br />

rescue operations on and in water,<br />

air-rescue <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> wounded and sick, search<br />

operations with dog teams, etc.<br />

<strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir work <strong>the</strong> corporate members must<br />

take account <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> seven Fundamental<br />

Principles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Movement. <strong>The</strong>y are entitled to use <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> emblem in addition to <strong>the</strong>ir own<br />

logo.<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Samaritans (SSB/ASS)<br />

�<br />

�<br />

www.samariter.ch<br />

Rescue, medical and health-care<br />

services<br />

Training <strong>of</strong> laypersons, nursing, youth<br />

work, blood donor recruitment campaigns,<br />

social care services<br />

<strong>In</strong> Switzerland, <strong>the</strong>re are more than 35,000<br />

active Samaritans in around 1,200 local<br />

Samaritan associations. <strong>The</strong>ir cantonal<br />

associations make up <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Samaritans<br />

(SSB/ASS) with its headquarters in Olten.<br />

<strong>The</strong> SSB was founded in 1888 and has<br />

been a corporate member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC since<br />

1984. It helps to ensure that every accident<br />

victim or anyone who suddenly falls ill<br />

receives appropriate fi rst aid and that help<br />

is provided for anyone in need <strong>of</strong> physical<br />

or psychological assistance.<br />

Role:<br />

� Providing sick people and accident victims<br />

with fi rst aid in accordance with <strong>the</strong><br />

principles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

� Public courses: fi rst aid, Samaritans, CPR,<br />

home nursing care, fi rst aid training for<br />

laypersons, Samaritans and third parties<br />

� Medical services and deployment:<br />

urgent assistance and care for people in<br />

<strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong> sudden illness or accident,<br />

paramedical services at public events,<br />

support for pr<strong>of</strong>essional rescue services<br />

in exceptional situations, blood donor<br />

recruitment campaigns<br />

� Youth work: running junior Samaritan<br />

groups, fi rst aid lessons in schools, provision<br />

<strong>of</strong> holiday passes<br />

� Pr<strong>of</strong>essional courses: training for pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />

ambulance staff and ambulance<br />

transport assistants, fi rst aid courses for<br />

companies<br />

17<br />

© SSB/ASS


<strong>Swiss</strong> Air-Rescue Association (Rega)<br />

www.rega.ch<br />

�<br />

�<br />

Air rescue, search and rescue fl ights,<br />

recovery fl ights, transfer fl ights<br />

Repatriation fl ights, medical advice in<br />

emergency situations abroad<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Air-Rescue Association, Rega (an<br />

acronym for REttungsfl ugwacht and Garde<br />

Aérienne/Guardia Aerea) was founded in<br />

1952 and has been a corporate member<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC since 1981. It is an independent<br />

and private charitable foundation that<br />

operates under <strong>the</strong> supervision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

Federal Council.<br />

18<br />

Role:<br />

� Rega provides emergency air assistance<br />

at home and abroad.<br />

� <strong>The</strong> foundation aims to provide assistance<br />

in accordance with <strong>the</strong> principles<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> to people in emergencies<br />

or o<strong>the</strong>rwise in need.<br />

� It is particularly involved in rescue work<br />

and in providing emergency assistance<br />

for people who have had an accident<br />

or who have fallen ill, but also in <strong>the</strong><br />

prevention <strong>of</strong> emergencies.<br />

� It may use its resources to provide<br />

assistance to those in social distress.<br />

© Rega<br />

© Rega


<strong>Swiss</strong> Life-Saving Association<br />

(SLRG/SSS)<br />

�<br />

�<br />

www.slrg.ch<br />

Life-saving, teaching about <strong>the</strong> dangers<br />

<strong>of</strong> being around water<br />

Life-saving courses, popular sports,<br />

youth work, rescue services<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Life-Saving Association (founded<br />

in 1933, a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC since 1982)<br />

is involved in accident prevention and lifesaving<br />

in all types <strong>of</strong> emergency situations,<br />

particularly in standing or fl owing water. It<br />

informs <strong>the</strong> general public about <strong>the</strong> correct<br />

behaviour to adopt in and around<br />

water. It has more than 27,000 members<br />

that belong to its local sections.<br />

© SRC – Youth<br />

Role:<br />

� <strong>The</strong> SLRG is a charitable organization<br />

that operates in accordance with ZEWO<br />

guidelines. Its purpose is to protect and<br />

save human life in and around water.<br />

� It acts in accordance with <strong>the</strong> principles,<br />

statutes, guidelines and resolutions <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC.<br />

� It provides information on <strong>the</strong> potential<br />

dangers <strong>of</strong> water.<br />

� It is involved in swimming as a popular<br />

sport.<br />

� It is involved in strategic youth work and<br />

training <strong>the</strong> next generation.<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

It provides training for life-savers <strong>of</strong><br />

all ages and ensures <strong>the</strong>ir deployment<br />

capability by <strong>of</strong>fering ongoing training.<br />

It is involved in lifeguarding and lifesaving<br />

work.<br />

It cooperates with o<strong>the</strong>r life-saving and<br />

water sports organizations.<br />

19<br />

© SLRG/SSS Section Thun-Oberland


<strong>Swiss</strong> Disaster Dogs Association<br />

(REDOG)<br />

�<br />

�<br />

REDOG<br />

www.redog.ch<br />

Rescuing missing persons and those<br />

buried under rubble<br />

Training and deployment <strong>of</strong> search<br />

and rescue teams (dog & handler =<br />

team)<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Disaster Dogs Association<br />

(REDOG), founded in 1971 (member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

SRC since 1984), consists <strong>of</strong> approximately<br />

650 members in 12 regional groups and is<br />

based on voluntary work. REDOG is run<br />

by <strong>the</strong> Central Committee and <strong>the</strong> Technical<br />

Commission. Basic training is conducted<br />

individually by <strong>the</strong> regional groups in accordance<br />

with <strong>the</strong> guidelines <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Technical<br />

Commission. <strong>The</strong> headquarters <strong>of</strong> REDOG<br />

are in Olten.<br />

Role:<br />

� To develop and maintain a system for<br />

raising <strong>the</strong> alarm and organizing <strong>the</strong><br />

task force<br />

� Training and deployment <strong>of</strong> disaster<br />

dogs and open terrain and mountain<br />

search and rescue dog teams<br />

� Conducting exercises and trials for<br />

disaster dogs and for open terrain and<br />

mountain dog teams<br />

� Search and rescue <strong>of</strong> people buried or<br />

trapped as a result <strong>of</strong> natural disasters<br />

or following <strong>the</strong> collapse <strong>of</strong> buildings<br />

� Searches for missing people in prealpine<br />

terrain toge<strong>the</strong>r with <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

Alpine Rescue Association<br />

� Public relations work<br />

© <strong>Red</strong>og


<strong>Swiss</strong> Army Medical Association<br />

(SMSV/SSTS)<br />

�<br />

�<br />

www.smsv.ch<br />

Rescue and medical services<br />

(non-military)<br />

First aid, emergency assistance and<br />

CPR courses, medical service, youth<br />

work<br />

Founded in 1881, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Army Medical<br />

Association (SMSV/SSTS) has around 570<br />

members and is divided into three regions<br />

(French-speaking Switzerland, Central and<br />

Eastern) and 25 sections <strong>of</strong> which one is<br />

a youth section. Since1982, <strong>the</strong> SMSV has<br />

been a corporate member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong>. <strong>The</strong> SMSV is an active participant in<br />

<strong>the</strong> coordinated medical service.<br />

Role:<br />

� Providing regular <strong>of</strong>f-duty training in <strong>the</strong><br />

medical service <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> armed forces<br />

� Organizing courses<br />

� Training instructors<br />

� Medical services at public events<br />

� Promoting <strong>the</strong> neutrality <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

armed forces<br />

� Physical exercise, sport<br />

�<br />

Youth training camp (AULA)<br />

21<br />

© SMSV/SSTS


2.5 THE INSTITUTIONS<br />

<strong>In</strong> certain sectors, <strong>the</strong> SRC has founded<br />

organizations that operate under private<br />

law (foundation or joint stock company) or<br />

civil law (association).<br />

<strong>The</strong> Lindenh<strong>of</strong> Foundation in Bern runs a<br />

nursing school that provides undergraduate<br />

and graduate training for <strong>the</strong> nursing<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>ession. <strong>The</strong> Lindenh<strong>of</strong> Foundation<br />

also runs a hospital that serves as a clinical<br />

training facility for <strong>the</strong> nursing school.<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC Humanitarian Foundation in Bern<br />

is a special institution that uses <strong>the</strong> proceeds<br />

from its foundation capital to support<br />

humanitarian projects run by <strong>the</strong> SRC<br />

and <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Movement. O<strong>the</strong>r<br />

SRC institutions are <strong>the</strong> SRC Blood Transfusion<br />

Service in Bern, which includes <strong>the</strong><br />

13 regional blood transfusion services, and<br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC Rescue Team, which unites all <strong>the</strong><br />

SRC organizations operating in this sector.<br />

<strong>The</strong>ir mission is set out in <strong>the</strong> individual<br />

foundations’ statutes. <strong>The</strong> foundations are<br />

under <strong>the</strong> supervision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> relevant government<br />

authority. <strong>The</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Council<br />

generally appoints <strong>the</strong> members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

management body.<br />

22<br />

Lindenh<strong>of</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Nursing Foundation,<br />

Bern (hospital and nursing school)<br />

www.lindenh<strong>of</strong>spital.ch<br />

www.lindenh<strong>of</strong>-schule.ch<br />

<strong>The</strong> Lindenh<strong>of</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Nursing Foundation<br />

in Bern was recognized as an independent<br />

charitable foundation by <strong>the</strong> Grand<br />

Council <strong>of</strong> Bern Canton in 1908. One <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> primary missions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Lindenh<strong>of</strong> nursing<br />

school, which has been in existence<br />

since 1899, is to provide undergarduate<br />

and postgraduate training for qualifi ed<br />

nursing pr<strong>of</strong>essionals. <strong>The</strong> Lindenh<strong>of</strong> hospital,<br />

founded in 1907, is one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> largest<br />

private hospitals in Switzerland and<br />

<strong>of</strong>fers a comprehensive range <strong>of</strong> primary<br />

and specialized medical care services. <strong>The</strong><br />

Lindenh<strong>of</strong> hospital provides education and<br />

clinical training facilities for <strong>the</strong> nursing sector<br />

and all <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r medical pr<strong>of</strong>essions.


HOSPITAL: <strong>The</strong> Lindenh<strong>of</strong> hospital is a private<br />

charitable hospital <strong>of</strong>fering a comprehensive<br />

range <strong>of</strong> medical services. It is recognized<br />

as an <strong>of</strong>fi cial service provider by<br />

<strong>the</strong> Canton <strong>of</strong> Bern. It <strong>of</strong>fers its services in<br />

accordance with <strong>the</strong> legal provisions and its<br />

facilities for every section <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> community<br />

and for all insurance categories. <strong>The</strong> hospital<br />

does not receive any public funding.<br />

From 2008–2012, <strong>the</strong> Lindenh<strong>of</strong> hospital<br />

will be investing in major structural work to<br />

replace existing facilities so that it can <strong>of</strong>fer<br />

progressive and effi cient services.<br />

SCHOOL: <strong>The</strong> school was founded in 1899<br />

and played a leading role in <strong>the</strong> training <strong>of</strong><br />

nurses up until September 2007. <strong>The</strong>n on a<br />

resolution <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Bern government, all nursing<br />

schools were centralized. <strong>The</strong> Lindenh<strong>of</strong><br />

Foundation is now one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> main institutions<br />

in <strong>the</strong> newly created Bern training<br />

centre for nursing. Despite this merger, <strong>the</strong><br />

former Lindenh<strong>of</strong> school is still in existence<br />

and will remain active in <strong>the</strong> graduate<br />

training sector. <strong>In</strong> collaboration with vocational<br />

colleges, training courses will also be<br />

<strong>of</strong>fered in <strong>the</strong> vocational college sector.<br />

SRC Blood Transfusion Service<br />

www.blutspende.ch<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC Blood Transfusion Service is a<br />

charitable joint stock company with <strong>the</strong><br />

SRC as <strong>the</strong> majority shareholder and <strong>the</strong><br />

13 regional blood transfusion centres as<br />

minority shareholders. <strong>The</strong> work is regulated<br />

by cooperation agreements.<br />

<strong>The</strong> 13 regional blood transfusion services<br />

toge<strong>the</strong>r with <strong>the</strong> 60 blood transfusion centres<br />

supply <strong>the</strong> hospitals in <strong>the</strong>ir respective<br />

regions. <strong>In</strong> cooperation with <strong>the</strong> Samaritan<br />

associations, mobile teams supply rural<br />

areas.<br />

<strong>The</strong> government resolution passed in June<br />

1951, which states that <strong>the</strong> provision <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> ‘blood transfusion service for civil and<br />

military purposes’ is one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> most important<br />

missions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC, provides <strong>the</strong> legal<br />

basis for <strong>the</strong> activities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Blood Transfusion<br />

Service.<br />

23<br />

© SRC BTS


SRC Humanitarian Foundation<br />

www.hs-srk.ch<br />

Support…<br />

� for <strong>the</strong> SRC in carrying out its<br />

humanitarian work<br />

� for <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Movement<br />

� for <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Blood Transfusion<br />

Service<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC Humanitarian Foundation is a<br />

charitable foundation established by <strong>the</strong><br />

SRC with headquarters in Bern. It supports<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> in its humanitarian<br />

work both in Switzerland and o<strong>the</strong>r countries.<br />

<strong>The</strong> proceeds generated from <strong>the</strong><br />

foundation’s assets are used to fund projects<br />

run by <strong>the</strong> SRC and o<strong>the</strong>r organizations<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong><br />

Crescent Movement.<br />

Role:<br />

� Providing support for <strong>the</strong> SRC in its<br />

humanitarian work in Switzerland and<br />

abroad<br />

� Providing support for projects run by <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Movement<br />

� Collaboration in ensuring that Switzerland<br />

is supplied with blood products<br />

on <strong>the</strong> basis <strong>of</strong> voluntary, unremunerated<br />

blood donations and in promot-<br />

24<br />

ing research and development in <strong>the</strong><br />

transfusion sector; it also assists foreign<br />

partner organizations in <strong>the</strong> development<br />

<strong>of</strong> and compliance with quality and<br />

safety requirements in <strong>the</strong> blood transfusion<br />

sector, all entirely on a charitable<br />

and non-pr<strong>of</strong>i t basis<br />

SRC Rescue Team<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC Rescue Team fosters cooperation<br />

among <strong>the</strong> rescue organizations providing<br />

fi rst aid training for laypersons.<br />

As an active member, <strong>the</strong> SRC Rescue Team<br />

comprises <strong>the</strong> SRC and those corporate<br />

members working in <strong>the</strong> rescue services:<br />

� <strong>Swiss</strong> Samaritans (SSB/ASS)<br />

� <strong>Swiss</strong> Life-Saving Association<br />

(SLRG/SSS)<br />

� <strong>Swiss</strong> Air-Rescue Association (Rega)<br />

� <strong>Swiss</strong> Army Medical Association<br />

(SMSV/SSTS)<br />

� <strong>Swiss</strong> Disaster Dogs Association<br />

(REDOG)<br />

Passive members:<br />

� <strong>Swiss</strong> Alpine Rescue Foundation<br />

� <strong>Swiss</strong> Speleological Society (SSS)<br />

Guest organizations:<br />

� Federal Offi ce for Civil Protection<br />

(FOCP)<br />

� Federal Offi ce for Logistics Troops<br />

(BALOG)


2.6 SRC HEADQUARTERS<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational<br />

Cooperation<br />

Management Services<br />

Health & <strong>In</strong>tegration<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC <strong>of</strong>fi ces in Bern and Wabern handle<br />

<strong>the</strong> day-to-day business <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC at<br />

national level. <strong>The</strong>y carry out <strong>the</strong> instructions<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Assembly and <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Council and are <strong>the</strong> centre <strong>of</strong><br />

expertise and services for <strong>the</strong> whole SRC<br />

Group. <strong>The</strong> SRC Headquarters are divided<br />

into four departments:<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational Cooperation<br />

� Disaster relief (within Switzerland or<br />

abroad)<br />

� Reconstruction<br />

� Development cooperation<br />

Health & <strong>In</strong>tegration<br />

� Health<br />

� <strong>In</strong>tegration<br />

� SRC Outpatient Clinic for victims <strong>of</strong><br />

torture and war<br />

� Asylum<br />

Director-General<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

Marketing<br />

& Communication<br />

Vocational Training<br />

Fundamentals & Development<br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Service<br />

Marketing & Communication<br />

� Marketing<br />

� Fundraising<br />

� Communication<br />

25<br />

Finance, Human<br />

Resources & Logistics<br />

Finance, Human Resources & Logistics<br />

� Accounting & Auditing<br />

� Human Resources<br />

� <strong>In</strong>ternal Services<br />

� IT Service<br />

<strong>The</strong> Management Services comprise <strong>the</strong><br />

Management Secretariat, <strong>the</strong> Legal Service,<br />

<strong>the</strong> Delegate for <strong>In</strong>ternational Relations,<br />

a Competence Centre for Youth and<br />

a Competence Centre for Voluntary Work,<br />

and <strong>In</strong>stitutional Development.


2.7 VOLUNTARY WORK / YOUTH WORK<br />

Voluntary work<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> cantonal associations, <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

Samaritans, <strong>the</strong> Life-Saving Society and<br />

<strong>the</strong> Disaster Dogs Association would not<br />

be able to provide <strong>the</strong>ir humanitarian services<br />

to <strong>the</strong> same extent were it not for <strong>the</strong><br />

work <strong>of</strong> around 50,000 men and women<br />

who volunteer to devote <strong>the</strong>ir free time to<br />

helping <strong>the</strong> needy and <strong>the</strong> vulnerable. Each<br />

year SRC volunteers provide more than 1.6<br />

million hours <strong>of</strong> unpaid help. That is <strong>the</strong><br />

‘I am using my good fortune to help <strong>the</strong> less fortunate.‘ <strong>In</strong> her spare time Sharon Torre, a schoolgirl from Münchenstein (BL), takes care <strong>of</strong> a young<br />

disabled man and helps a Turkish girl with her homework.<br />

26<br />

equivalent <strong>of</strong> more than 40 million <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

francs’ worth <strong>of</strong> work.<br />

That makes <strong>the</strong> SRC one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> leading<br />

voluntary organizations in Switzerland. <strong>The</strong><br />

cantonal associations and <strong>the</strong> SRC rescue<br />

organizations have a great deal <strong>of</strong> experience<br />

in working with volunteers. Since 2008<br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC has had a Competence Centre for<br />

Voluntary Work. Its purpose is to promote<br />

<strong>the</strong> exchange <strong>of</strong> know-how and experi-<br />

© Annemarie Guerts


ence between organizations and support<br />

<strong>the</strong>m with specialist expertise so that <strong>the</strong><br />

voluntary work is <strong>the</strong> best it can be and is<br />

adapted to <strong>the</strong> changing challenges <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

environment.<br />

<strong>In</strong> future, greater account will be taken <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> following factors:<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

Stricter requirements for qualifi cations<br />

and safety in <strong>the</strong> health and rescue sectors.<br />

Careful training must be given to<br />

volunteers as appropriate.<br />

Social changes, such as increasing<br />

pressures <strong>of</strong> work for some people, or<br />

increasing economic problems for o<strong>the</strong>rs,<br />

toge<strong>the</strong>r with new trends in leisure are<br />

causing a drop-<strong>of</strong>f in <strong>the</strong> willingness to<br />

do voluntary work.<br />

Solidarity with <strong>the</strong> vulnerable or <strong>the</strong><br />

community experience are no longer<br />

suffi cient motives for voluntary work.<br />

Many people are placing greater<br />

demands on voluntary work: qualifi ed,<br />

varied work with a limited time commitment<br />

are more in demand, enabling<br />

<strong>the</strong> volunteers to apply <strong>the</strong>ir specialist<br />

know-how and giving <strong>the</strong>m a sense <strong>of</strong><br />

achievement and self-assurance.<br />

Even volunteers expect some form <strong>of</strong><br />

appreciation. <strong>The</strong> involvement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

volunteers in <strong>the</strong>ir activity and public<br />

recognition <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir contribution play a<br />

major role in this.<br />

Without <strong>the</strong> valuable voluntary work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Samaritans many sports<br />

fi xtures and major public events could not be held.<br />

Volunteers work under <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> banner<br />

in <strong>the</strong> following sectors:<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

Running courses, e.g. in fi rst aid, for <strong>the</strong><br />

SSB, SLRG, SMVS, <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Service<br />

and o<strong>the</strong>r organizations<br />

Youth work with <strong>the</strong> Samaritans, SLRG<br />

and Junior <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

Providing care and assistance for <strong>the</strong><br />

sick and easing <strong>the</strong> burden on family<br />

carers<br />

Volunteer drivers<br />

<strong>In</strong>tegration programme for children from<br />

o<strong>the</strong>r cultures<br />

Rescue dog teams<br />

SSB or SMSV fi rst-aid teams at public<br />

events<br />

SLRG life-savers during water sports<br />

events<br />

� And many more<br />

27<br />

© SSB/ASS


<strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Youth<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> youth<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

For young people up to <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 30<br />

Four junior organizations<br />

Three sectors: fi rst aid, life-saving,<br />

social services<br />

National <strong>of</strong>fers: training camp, youth<br />

magazine, campaigns<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Youth inculdes <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Samaritans Youth (HELP), <strong>the</strong> Youth<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Life-Saving Association (SLRG/<br />

SSS), <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Youth sections <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

cantonal associations and <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Army<br />

Medical Association Youth (SMSV/SSTS).<br />

28<br />

<strong>The</strong> Competence Centre for Youth at SRC<br />

Headquarters is responsible for coordinating<br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC Youth organizations.<br />

Services and activities <strong>of</strong>fered at national<br />

level:<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

Training camps and weekends for young<br />

people aged between 16 and 25 in all<br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC Youth organizations<br />

‘across’ national summer camp<br />

(bilingual in German-French)<br />

Publishing <strong>the</strong> SRC Youth magazine<br />

‘ready for red cross‘<br />

Campaign: 2007–2009: ‘Your strengths.<br />

Your future. No pressure!’ (international<br />

campaign with Youth organizations <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> German, Austrian and Luxembourg<br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>)<br />

© SRC – Youth


2.8 STRATEGY AND HIGHER AIMS<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Strategy 012<br />

Strategy 012 is a kind <strong>of</strong> ‘umbrella<br />

strategy’ for <strong>the</strong> 29 member organizations<br />

and <strong>the</strong> four institutions<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC. It sets out <strong>the</strong> strategic<br />

orientation to be taken by <strong>the</strong> entire<br />

SRC Group from 2008–2012.<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

Target group: as a humanitarian<br />

organization, <strong>the</strong> SRC directs its services<br />

at people in Switzerland and abroad<br />

whose lives, health or dignity are threatened<br />

or violated (vulnerable people).<br />

Core activities: in Switzerland, <strong>the</strong><br />

SRC concentrates on <strong>the</strong> core activities<br />

health, integration and rescue.<br />

Abroad, <strong>the</strong> SRC group works in disaster<br />

relief, reconstruction and longerterm<br />

development cooperation.<br />

Core areas <strong>of</strong> expertise: in order to continue<br />

to provide high-quality services in<br />

its three core areas <strong>of</strong> activity, <strong>the</strong> SRC<br />

is consolidating its expertise in <strong>the</strong> fi elds<br />

<strong>of</strong> voluntary work, youth work and<br />

education.<br />

Values: <strong>the</strong> work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC is based on<br />

<strong>the</strong> seven principles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational<br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement.<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC embodies a constructive ethos<br />

<strong>of</strong> communication and cooperation.<br />

Resources: <strong>the</strong> volunteers and paid staff<br />

working for <strong>the</strong> SRC are its most valuable<br />

resource. <strong>The</strong> SRC <strong>the</strong>refore takes<br />

appropriate care <strong>of</strong> this resource.<br />

Health<br />

<strong>In</strong>tegration<br />

Rescue<br />

Culture <strong>of</strong><br />

constructive<br />

communication<br />

and<br />

collaboration<br />

Vulnerable<br />

people<br />

Volunteers<br />

Unpaid<br />

Employees<br />

29<br />

Voluntary work<br />

Youth<br />

Training<br />

Health<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC Group is <strong>the</strong> leading humanitarian<br />

organization in <strong>the</strong> health sector in Switzerland<br />

and has a great deal <strong>of</strong> expertise.<br />

Its core area Health comprises a range <strong>of</strong><br />

prevention and health-promotion activities,<br />

in addition to <strong>the</strong> provision <strong>of</strong> services<br />

and education in <strong>the</strong> health sector.<br />

One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> focus points <strong>of</strong> Strategy 012<br />

is <strong>the</strong> provision <strong>of</strong> support for <strong>the</strong> housebound<br />

and <strong>the</strong>ir relatives. <strong>In</strong> providing<br />

services in this sector, <strong>the</strong> SRC is taking<br />

account <strong>of</strong> society’s changing age structure<br />

and <strong>the</strong> growing pressure on costs in <strong>the</strong><br />

health sector.<br />

Ano<strong>the</strong>r focus point is <strong>the</strong> provision <strong>of</strong><br />

health care for those with inadequate<br />

access to <strong>the</strong> health system. <strong>In</strong> doing this,<br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC is responding to <strong>the</strong> growing<br />

number <strong>of</strong> socially disadvantaged people<br />

who are consequently deprived <strong>of</strong> normal<br />

access to health facilities.


Through its blood transfusion service, <strong>the</strong><br />

SRC also supplies <strong>the</strong> people <strong>of</strong> Switzerland<br />

with blood products.<br />

<strong>In</strong>tegration<br />

<strong>The</strong> growing pluralization <strong>of</strong> society and <strong>the</strong><br />

ever greater gulf between rich and poor<br />

have resulted in an increasing number <strong>of</strong><br />

socially excluded and isolated people. Cultural<br />

differences within <strong>the</strong> population as a<br />

result <strong>of</strong> migration add to <strong>the</strong>se problems.<br />

<strong>The</strong> core area <strong>In</strong>tegration comprises services<br />

to prevent social exclusion, toge<strong>the</strong>r<br />

with counselling, networking and training<br />

to promote integration and peaceful coexistence<br />

within Switzerland. <strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong><br />

people for whom integration has proven<br />

impossible, <strong>the</strong> SRC provides support for<br />

<strong>the</strong>ir return home and re-integration in<br />

<strong>the</strong>ir country <strong>of</strong> origin.<br />

30<br />

© Sandra D. Sutter<br />

‘Mitten unter uns‘ integration project: in order to achieve successful integration,<br />

we need to get to know one ano<strong>the</strong>r. <strong>The</strong> SRC is <strong>the</strong>refore involved<br />

in promoting friendship between foreign children and <strong>Swiss</strong> families.<br />

Rescue<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC complements <strong>the</strong> national rescue<br />

services with a number <strong>of</strong> voluntary and<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essionally run services. It cooperates<br />

closely with <strong>the</strong> government, cantons and<br />

local authorities.<br />

<strong>The</strong> core area Rescue includes a range <strong>of</strong><br />

prevention and training measures in addition<br />

to o<strong>the</strong>r services relating to rescue, fi rst<br />

aid/medical services, disaster preparedness,<br />

disaster relief and search and rescue.<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Air-Rescue Association (Rega) is particularly involved in rescue<br />

work and in providing emergency assistance for people who have had an<br />

accident or who have fallen ill.<br />

<strong>In</strong> accordance with Strategy 012 <strong>the</strong> SRC<br />

intends to maintain its position as <strong>the</strong> leading<br />

humanitarian organization in Switzerland<br />

in voluntary rescue operations on land<br />

and in water and in pr<strong>of</strong>essional air-rescue<br />

operations.<br />

An important aspect <strong>of</strong> this is <strong>the</strong> training<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> public in fi rst aid. This contributes<br />

to improving <strong>the</strong> chances that <strong>the</strong><br />

alarm will be raised immediately and that<br />

appropriate life-saving measures will be<br />

taken when accidents occur.<br />

© Rega


SRC work abroad<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

Disaster relief<br />

Reconstruction<br />

Development cooperation<br />

Outside Switzerland, <strong>the</strong> SRC Group, as<br />

part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Movement,<br />

is active in disaster relief, reconstruction<br />

and longer-term development<br />

cooperation. <strong>The</strong> SRC’s work abroad is an<br />

expression <strong>of</strong> its solidarity with people outside<br />

Switzerland whose life, health or dignity<br />

are threatened or violated.<br />

<strong>In</strong> international disaster relief, <strong>the</strong> SRC<br />

has made it its goal to remain <strong>the</strong> major<br />

national partner <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> government.<br />

<strong>In</strong> reconstruction and longer-term development<br />

cooperation, <strong>the</strong> SRC plans to<br />

concentrate to a greater extent on <strong>the</strong><br />

health sector. <strong>In</strong> development cooperation,<br />

it focuses in particular on developing and<br />

expanding local health structures in specifi<br />

c target countries. Additional emphasis<br />

is placed on combating infectious diseases<br />

Abroad, <strong>the</strong> SRC works in disaster relief, reconstruction and longer-term<br />

development cooperation.<br />

© IFRC, Frederik Barkenhammer<br />

and poverty-induced blindness in addition<br />

to improving local blood transfusion services.<br />

Voluntary work<br />

�<br />

�<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC is one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> largest voluntary<br />

organizations in Switzerland.<br />

Commitment to <strong>the</strong> promotion <strong>of</strong><br />

voluntary work and to gaining public<br />

recognition for it from government<br />

and society.<br />

Voluntary work is one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> main pillars <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC’s services in <strong>the</strong> health, social and<br />

rescue sectors. <strong>The</strong> SRC relies heavily on<br />

volunteers in order to provide <strong>the</strong> range <strong>of</strong><br />

services <strong>of</strong>fered by most <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC organizations.<br />

At national level, <strong>the</strong> SRC actively promotes<br />

voluntary work and strives to gain<br />

public recognition for it from government<br />

and society at large.<br />

One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> objectives <strong>of</strong> Strategy 012 is<br />

to diversify <strong>the</strong> deployment opportunities<br />

for volunteers so that interested parties <strong>of</strong><br />

all ages can be <strong>of</strong>fered attractive work <strong>of</strong><br />

varying duration and with differing levels<br />

<strong>of</strong> commitment in terms <strong>of</strong> time. <strong>In</strong> this<br />

context, greater efforts should be made to<br />

attract young people and pr<strong>of</strong>essionals to<br />

devote some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir time to voluntary work<br />

in <strong>the</strong> SRC.<br />

31


Youth work<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

Development <strong>of</strong> active community<br />

youth groups<br />

Training courses for young people<br />

Youth representatives in organizations<br />

and committees<br />

Many young people are motivated by<br />

humanitarian issues and can identify with<br />

<strong>the</strong> values and principles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational<br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Movement. <strong>The</strong> SRC relies<br />

on young, committed individuals to promote<br />

<strong>the</strong>se values and principles, carry out<br />

grass-roots work and participate in organizations<br />

and committees in a voluntary<br />

capacity.<br />

As part <strong>of</strong> Strategy 012, <strong>the</strong> SRC is planning<br />

to develop more active community youth<br />

groups. To this end, training courses should<br />

be provided to give young people <strong>the</strong> skills<br />

<strong>the</strong>y need to take on voluntary work.<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC also aims to ensure that young<br />

people are suffi ciently represented in organizations<br />

and committees.<br />

© Henrik Sellin, Swedish <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

Courses<br />

� Providing extracurricular and<br />

extrapr<strong>of</strong>essional training courses<br />

� Developing training courses in health,<br />

integration and rescue<br />

� Quality is a primary objective<br />

Providing extracurricular and extrapr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />

training courses is a core activity <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC and its member organizations. <strong>The</strong><br />

courses <strong>of</strong>fered by <strong>the</strong> SRC are directed at<br />

SRC volunteers and paid employees, external<br />

SRC service providers, and <strong>the</strong> general<br />

public.<br />

<strong>In</strong> accordance with Strategy 012, <strong>the</strong> SRC<br />

is to develop <strong>the</strong> range <strong>of</strong> education and<br />

training opportunities in <strong>the</strong> health, integration<br />

and rescue sectors. <strong>In</strong> this context,<br />

quality is <strong>the</strong> primary objective.<br />

© Daniel Wietlisbach


2.9 THE SRC AS A PARTNER OF THE SWISS AUTHORITIES<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC is <strong>the</strong> only humanitarian organization<br />

recognized as a <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Society in<br />

Switzerland in accordance with <strong>the</strong> Geneva<br />

Conventions. A duty to support <strong>the</strong> state in<br />

fulfi lling its role in <strong>the</strong> humanitarian fi eld is<br />

inherent in this recognition.<br />

Among o<strong>the</strong>r things, <strong>the</strong> SRC is responsible<br />

for providing voluntary medical assistance<br />

in confl ict situations and a blood transfusion<br />

service for civil and military purposes.<br />

<strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong> health and social sector, <strong>the</strong> SRC<br />

works at regional level in all cantons in<br />

Switzerland.<br />

While <strong>the</strong> SRC as an association operates<br />

under private law, it also has close connections<br />

with government and cantonal<br />

authorities for which it carries out certain<br />

services and missions. Never<strong>the</strong>less, <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> is politically independent<br />

as required by <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> principle <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>In</strong>dependence.


© Daniel Albert


3<br />

3.1 HEALTH<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

TASKS AND ACTIVITIES OF THE SRC<br />

Courses for <strong>the</strong> general public<br />

(e.g. care, perinatal classes, babysitting<br />

classes, ‘PPP’ – dealing with <strong>the</strong><br />

teenage years, etc.)<br />

Extracurricular and extrapr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />

training courses (e.g. nursing assistant,<br />

transcultural skills, etc.)<br />

Outpatient ergo<strong>the</strong>rapy<br />

SRC living will<br />

Health promotion among migrants<br />

and sans-papiers<br />

SRC Outpatient Clinic for victims <strong>of</strong><br />

torture and war<br />

Vocational training in <strong>the</strong> health sector<br />

Development cooperation<br />

Supplying <strong>the</strong> population with blood<br />

products<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC promotes healthy living among<br />

<strong>the</strong> general public and helps people to<br />

maintain or regain <strong>the</strong>ir health. By <strong>of</strong>fering<br />

training for specialists, courses for <strong>the</strong><br />

general public and brochures and guides,<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> consolidates and promotes<br />

health skills in Switzerland. Every year,<br />

thousands <strong>of</strong> laypersons and health pr<strong>of</strong>essionals<br />

attend SRC courses in health<br />

care and nursing.<br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> courses impart knowledge and<br />

promote awareness <strong>of</strong> health issues. Topics<br />

covered are, for example, caring for<br />

relatives, baby care, depression, sleep<br />

disorders and <strong>the</strong> principles <strong>of</strong> good nutrition.<br />

<strong>The</strong> cantonal associations and <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

Samaritans are particularly active in this<br />

sector. <strong>The</strong> SRC takes care <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> health<br />

<strong>of</strong> migrants and sans-papiers and boosts<br />

awareness <strong>of</strong> humanitarian and migrant<br />

issues among health-care pr<strong>of</strong>essionals.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Vocational Training Service at SRC<br />

Headquarters is in charge <strong>of</strong> recognizing<br />

qualifi cations and ensuring <strong>the</strong> quality <strong>of</strong><br />

courses in <strong>the</strong> health-care sector, recognizing<br />

foreign qualifi cations, registering health<br />

qualifi cations and keeping statistics.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Lindenh<strong>of</strong> nursing school is a leading<br />

training centre in nursing and health care.<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC is committed to providing longterm<br />

help in about 30 countries worldwide,<br />

in Africa, Asia, Latin America and eastern<br />

Europe. Our work in o<strong>the</strong>r countries<br />

focuses on promoting health for especially<br />

vulnerable sectors <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world’s population,<br />

in particular women and children.<br />

35


<strong>The</strong> SRC Blood Transfusion Service supplies<br />

<strong>the</strong> population/hospitals with blood products<br />

and in so doing makes an important<br />

contribution to <strong>the</strong> health-care system <strong>of</strong><br />

Switzerland.<br />

<strong>In</strong>formation brochures and <strong>In</strong>ternet sites<br />

round <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong> SRC’s work in health promotion:<br />

e.g. ‘Staying independent in old<br />

age’ with valuable tips for <strong>the</strong> elderly or<br />

‘Advice for carers’ for people looking after<br />

relatives. Brochures in several languages<br />

on health, illness and <strong>the</strong> health-care<br />

service are available on <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternet at<br />

www.migesplus.ch.<br />

SRC Outpatient Clinic for victims <strong>of</strong><br />

torture and war<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC Outpatient Clinic is a place where<br />

<strong>the</strong> survivors <strong>of</strong> torture, war and displacement<br />

can receive medical, psycho<strong>the</strong>rapeutic<br />

and psychosocial counselling, treatment<br />

and advice.<br />

<strong>The</strong> service enables those concerned to<br />

work through <strong>the</strong>ir traumatic experiences,<br />

develop <strong>the</strong>ir personal skills and consolidate<br />

family and social resources. Regaining<br />

good health, self-determination and<br />

dignity is a key condition for <strong>the</strong>se people<br />

to become integrated into our society.<br />

36<br />

<strong>The</strong> counselling and training services for<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essionals working in this sector provide<br />

specifi c support. <strong>The</strong> aim is to give traumatized<br />

people and <strong>the</strong>ir families competent<br />

counselling and care.<br />

<strong>The</strong> general public is made aware <strong>of</strong> this<br />

topic in specifi c campaigns. <strong>The</strong> aim is<br />

to promote understanding for migrants<br />

who are suffering from violence-related<br />

trauma.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Outpatient Clinic systematically networks<br />

with a variety <strong>of</strong> clinics, polyclinics<br />

and o<strong>the</strong>r institutions working in <strong>the</strong> medical<br />

and social sector.<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

For traumatized refugees and <strong>the</strong>ir families:<br />

diagnosis, holistic treatments, specifi c<br />

<strong>the</strong>rapies, counselling and advice<br />

For pr<strong>of</strong>essionals: counselling, networking,<br />

documentation, training (lectures,<br />

workshops and symposiums)<br />

<strong>The</strong>rapy facilities in Bern, Zurich,<br />

Lausanne and Geneva


3.2 INTEGRATION<br />

� Help for <strong>the</strong> elderly and <strong>the</strong> handicapped<br />

(volunteer drivers, emergency<br />

service, hospital visitors, Carissimo)<br />

� Assistance and support for family<br />

carers<br />

� Childminding service for sick children<br />

or for children whose parents are ill<br />

� chili: confl ict training for children,<br />

teenagers and adults<br />

� Mitten unter uns: integration<br />

programme for children from o<strong>the</strong>r<br />

cultures<br />

� Care and accommodation <strong>of</strong><br />

asylum-seekers<br />

� Advice and support for migrants<br />

� Returnee and reintegration assistance<br />

for applicants refused asylum and<br />

sans-papiers<br />

� Ad hoc assistance for individuals<br />

in need<br />

� Second-hand clo<strong>the</strong>s shops and<br />

used-clothing collection<br />

� 2 x Christmas<br />

� Tracing service in collaboration with<br />

<strong>the</strong> ICRC<br />

� Youth work<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC promotes <strong>the</strong> peaceful coexistence<br />

<strong>of</strong> people in Switzerland and <strong>the</strong><br />

participation <strong>of</strong> marginalized members <strong>of</strong><br />

society or those groups that are threatened<br />

with exclusion, whe<strong>the</strong>r or not <strong>the</strong>y have a<br />

migrant background.<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> emergency call system makes people feel safe in <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

homes and enables many elderly people to carry on living in familiar<br />

surroundings.<br />

<strong>The</strong> core area <strong>In</strong>tegration comprises services<br />

to prevent social exclusion, toge<strong>the</strong>r<br />

with counselling, networking and training<br />

to promote integration and peaceful coexistence<br />

within Switzerland.<br />

37<br />

© Daniel Wietlisbach


3.3 RESCUE<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Air-Rescue Association (Rega) is a corporate member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

SRC. <strong>In</strong> addition to pr<strong>of</strong>essional rescue services by Rega, <strong>the</strong> SRC’s rescue<br />

services are mainly provided by volunteers.<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

First-aid<br />

Courses for <strong>the</strong> general public<br />

(dealing with emergencies,<br />

Samaritans, life-saving, etc.)<br />

Air-rescue missions<br />

Rescue in and on water<br />

Rescuing missing persons and those<br />

buried under rubble<br />

Support for <strong>the</strong> army medical service<br />

Youth work<br />

Disaster relief in Switzerland<br />

Emergency and disaster relief in<br />

o<strong>the</strong>r countries<br />

38<br />

© Rega<br />

<strong>The</strong> core area <strong>In</strong>tegration comprises prevention<br />

and training courses, toge<strong>the</strong>r with<br />

services such as rescue, fi rst aid, disaster<br />

preparedness, disaster relief, and search<br />

operations.<br />

Rescue activities in Switzerland are undertaken<br />

by independent organizations under<br />

contract to <strong>the</strong> SRC as corporate members.<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Samaritans (SSB/ASS)<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Life-Saving Association<br />

(SLRG/SSS)<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Air-Rescue Association (Rega)<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> Disaster Dogs Association<br />

(REDOG)<br />

With <strong>the</strong> exception <strong>of</strong> Rega, rescue missions<br />

are undertaken by volunteers.<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC Rescue Team, which combines <strong>the</strong><br />

corporate members and <strong>the</strong> SRC, is aimed<br />

at optimizing rescue operations in Switzerland.<br />

It represents <strong>the</strong> SRC in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

Medical Rescue Commission for emergency<br />

medicine and rescue operations (SME-<br />

DREC).


<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Service<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Service<br />

implements <strong>the</strong> original <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong> precept: helping people in need<br />

(Battle <strong>of</strong> Solferino, women <strong>of</strong> Castiglione<br />

‘tutti fratelli!’)<br />

Assisting <strong>the</strong> medical services <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

armed forces<br />

Promoting <strong>In</strong>ternational Humanitarian<br />

Law and <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> principles<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Service is made up <strong>of</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong><br />

people assigned to <strong>the</strong> armed forces as<br />

specialists and whose job it is to improve<br />

<strong>the</strong> lot <strong>of</strong> wounded and sick members <strong>of</strong><br />

armed forces in <strong>the</strong> fi eld and to treat and<br />

nurse <strong>the</strong> wounded and sick and provide<br />

o<strong>the</strong>r medical services.<br />

<strong>The</strong> foundation stone for <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

Service was laid by <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> parliament<br />

on 6 October 1903. Since <strong>the</strong>n, countless<br />

numbers <strong>of</strong> women have provided services<br />

for sick soldiers, refugees, <strong>the</strong> disabled and<br />

those in need <strong>of</strong> care, including voluntary<br />

work abroad, e.g. in Namibia, <strong>the</strong> western<br />

Sahara, or Kosovo.<br />

Today, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Service has around<br />

300 women with pr<strong>of</strong>essional medical,<br />

paramedical or technical medical qualifi cations.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y mainly work in teams, in military<br />

hospitals or medical institutions, but<br />

also in training schools for recruits and<br />

<strong>of</strong>fi cers and various specialist committees<br />

and working groups <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Army Medical<br />

Service. A number <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />

women also provide support for <strong>the</strong> SRC<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational Cooperation Departement in<br />

emergency and disaster work. It would be<br />

hard to conceive <strong>of</strong> such work without <strong>the</strong><br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essional expertise <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> RCS members<br />

(RCSMs).<br />

Some RCSMs have been specially recruited<br />

and trained to promote <strong>In</strong>ternational<br />

Humanitarian Law and <strong>the</strong> principles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> armed forces.<br />

39


3.4 INTERNATIONAL COMMITMENT<br />

<strong>The</strong> activities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC abroad are mainly<br />

carried out in regions that have been devastated<br />

by war and natural disasters and<br />

where health care is far from adequate to<br />

meet <strong>the</strong> needs. But <strong>the</strong> SRC is also permanently<br />

committed to development cooperation<br />

in <strong>the</strong> health sector.<br />

At present it is running programmes in<br />

about 30 countries in Africa, Asia, Latin<br />

America, and eastern Europe, in <strong>the</strong> following<br />

sectors:<br />

� Humanitarian relief work<br />

� Support for refugees and displaced<br />

persons<br />

� Reconstruction and rehabilitation<br />

� Development cooperation with a focus<br />

on health<br />

� Promotion <strong>of</strong> National <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and<br />

<strong>Red</strong> Crescent Societies<br />

40<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC pursues two main objectives:<br />

1. Improving <strong>the</strong> living conditions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

most vulnerable groups, in particular in <strong>the</strong><br />

health-care sector<br />

2. Promoting <strong>the</strong> population’s own initiatives<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC’s work in this sector has a longterm<br />

perspective. It tackles <strong>the</strong> root cause<br />

<strong>of</strong> poverty and underdevelopment. At <strong>the</strong><br />

same time we try to avoid creating any<br />

dependence so that <strong>the</strong> population concerned<br />

is motivated to take <strong>the</strong>ir destiny<br />

into <strong>the</strong>ir own hands.<br />

<strong>In</strong> its work abroad <strong>the</strong> SRC works in close<br />

cooperation with <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Federation<br />

and <strong>the</strong> ICRC.<br />

Key regional activities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC


<strong>The</strong> SRC distributes relief supplies in Sumatra/<strong>In</strong>donesia after <strong>the</strong> tsunami in 2004.<br />

<strong>The</strong> latest information about <strong>the</strong> SRC’s<br />

international commitment and detailed<br />

information about all <strong>the</strong> countries where<br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC is working can be found at<br />

www.redcross.ch/activities/international.<br />

Disaster response<br />

<strong>The</strong> SRC provides emergency relief after<br />

serious natural disasters and during armed<br />

confl icts. Disaster relief involves providing<br />

shelter, foodstuffs, medical care and<br />

drinking water. Sending out relief supplies<br />

and deploying delegates for logistics and<br />

medicine is handled directly or through <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Movement. <strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

event <strong>of</strong> natural disasters, <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational<br />

Federation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Societies is in charge <strong>of</strong> coordinating <strong>the</strong><br />

work, while in war zones this is done by <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational Committee <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

(ICRC). <strong>The</strong> SRC also works in close cooperation<br />

with <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Humanitarian Aid Unit<br />

and is a partner <strong>of</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Solidarity.<br />

41<br />

© SRC


Health & Reconstruction<br />

42<br />

© ICRC, Boris Herger<br />

© SRC<br />

Latin America<br />

<strong>In</strong> its work in various countries <strong>of</strong> Latin<br />

America <strong>the</strong> SRC concentrates on sustainable<br />

improvements to health and nutrition.<br />

To do this it works in close cooperation with<br />

organizations <strong>of</strong> indigenous communities<br />

and farmers to consolidate <strong>the</strong>m and help<br />

<strong>the</strong>m to help <strong>the</strong>mselves.<br />

<strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong> district <strong>of</strong> Santa Cruz in Bolivia indigent villagers are given free<br />

medical care.<br />

Africa<br />

<strong>In</strong> African countries <strong>the</strong> SRC combats poverty-induced<br />

blindness and works to prevent<br />

<strong>the</strong> spread <strong>of</strong> HIV and provide medical<br />

treatment for AIDS. To achieve this <strong>the</strong><br />

National <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Societies are institutionally<br />

reinforced and training is provided<br />

for <strong>the</strong>ir staff and volunteers.<br />

Darfur, Sudan: A mo<strong>the</strong>r takes her toddler with suspected malaria to a<br />

mobile clinic supported by <strong>the</strong> SRC.


© SRC © SRC<br />

Eastern Europe<br />

On account <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> precarious state <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

health-care services and <strong>the</strong> widespread<br />

poverty in many areas <strong>of</strong> eastern Europe,<br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC trains health staff at community<br />

level, plays an active role in reforming<br />

<strong>the</strong> health service and runs various programmes,<br />

mainly for mo<strong>the</strong>rs and <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

children.<br />

Bulgaria: A <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> worker takes care <strong>of</strong> an elderly lady and helps her<br />

with <strong>the</strong> housework.<br />

Asia<br />

<strong>In</strong> Asia <strong>the</strong> SRC is helping with reconstruction<br />

after serious natural disasters, combating<br />

poverty-induced blindness, and<br />

providing access to clean drinking water<br />

and health care facilities in disadvantaged<br />

regions.<br />

SRC programme to combat blindness in Nepal: A little girl and her fa<strong>the</strong>r<br />

are happy <strong>the</strong> eye operation was a success.<br />

43


COMITE INTERNATIONAL<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and<br />

<strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement<br />

G ENEV E<br />

ICRC<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational Committee<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

Geneva, founded 1863<br />

Armed<br />

confl icts<br />

▲<br />

▲ ▲<br />

States party to <strong>the</strong><br />

Geneva Conventions<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational<br />

Conference<br />

▲<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Standing Commission<br />

Council <strong>of</strong> Delegates<br />

▲<br />

186<br />

National<br />

Societies<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

or <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

First Aid<br />

Rescue<br />

Health<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and<br />

<strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement<br />

or<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

▲<br />

▲<br />

▲<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational<br />

Federation<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and<br />

<strong>Red</strong> Crescent Societies<br />

Geneva, founded 1919<br />

Natural disasters<br />

Refugee assistance<br />

Health


4<br />

INTERNATIONAL RED CROSS &<br />

RED CRESCENT MOVEMENT<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Movement comprises <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational<br />

Committee <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>, <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational<br />

Federation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Societies and 186 National Societies.<br />

<strong>The</strong> activities undertaken by <strong>the</strong> Movement<br />

are sometimes very diverse, but all serve<br />

<strong>the</strong> same common purpose: preventing<br />

and alleviating human suffering and protecting<br />

human dignity. <strong>The</strong> work <strong>of</strong> all <strong>the</strong><br />

organizations belonging to <strong>the</strong> Movement<br />

is based on <strong>the</strong> seven Fundamental Principles,<br />

which to a certain degree are <strong>the</strong><br />

guidelines that are binding for all <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m<br />

to <strong>the</strong> same extent.<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational Committee <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong> (ICRC)<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Committee has its headquarters<br />

in Geneva from where it runs its<br />

worldwide operations. As <strong>the</strong> guardian<br />

and advocate <strong>of</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Humanitarian<br />

Law it is <strong>the</strong> ICRC’s responsibility to<br />

ensure that <strong>the</strong> Geneva Conventions are<br />

adhered to. It provides support for <strong>the</strong> victims<br />

<strong>of</strong> military and o<strong>the</strong>r armed confl icts<br />

around <strong>the</strong> world.<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational Federation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> &<br />

<strong>Red</strong> Crescent Societies (IFRC)<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Federation is <strong>the</strong> worldwide<br />

umbrella organization <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> National<br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Societies and<br />

also has its headquarters in Geneva. Unlike<br />

<strong>the</strong> ICRC, it is deployed in <strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong><br />

natural and civil disasters. Its work mainly<br />

comprises international disaster relief, help<br />

for refugees outside <strong>of</strong> confl ict zones, and<br />

health care and health promotion at community<br />

level. <strong>In</strong> addition, <strong>the</strong> IFRC promotes<br />

collaboration between <strong>the</strong> National Societies<br />

and supports <strong>the</strong>m in <strong>the</strong>ir work and<br />

development.<br />

National <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Societies<br />

It is <strong>the</strong> 186 National <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and <strong>Red</strong><br />

Crescent Societies that implement <strong>the</strong><br />

objectives and principles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Movement<br />

in <strong>the</strong>ir respective countries. <strong>The</strong>y help <strong>the</strong><br />

national authorities to fulfi l <strong>the</strong>ir humanitarian<br />

responsibilities, and provide a broad<br />

range <strong>of</strong> services.<br />

45


4.1 INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

OF THE RED CROSS (ICRC)<br />

Deployment in war and crisis zones<br />

Monitoring compliance with <strong>the</strong><br />

Geneva Conventions<br />

Visiting prisoners <strong>of</strong> war and political<br />

prisoners<br />

<strong>The</strong> ICRC was founded in 1863 and is<br />

<strong>the</strong> only organization to be entrusted in<br />

<strong>the</strong> international legal texts with monitoring<br />

States’ compliance with <strong>In</strong>ternational<br />

Humanitarian Law. <strong>The</strong> Assembly – <strong>the</strong><br />

highest body <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ICRC – consists <strong>of</strong> a<br />

maximum <strong>of</strong> 25 <strong>Swiss</strong> citizens. <strong>The</strong> ICRC’s<br />

mission is to protect <strong>the</strong> life and <strong>the</strong> dignity<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> victims <strong>of</strong> war and civil confl ict.<br />

Nigeria: Distributing copies <strong>of</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Humanitarian Law to Nigerian<br />

soldiers in preparation for peacekeeping activities in <strong>the</strong> Darfur region <strong>of</strong><br />

Sudan under a mandate to <strong>the</strong> African Union.<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

CCOMITE INTERNATIONAL<br />

G ENEV E<br />

<strong>The</strong> ICRC’s work<br />

includes:<br />

Monitoring compliance with <strong>the</strong> Geneva<br />

Conventions<br />

Taking care <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> wounded<br />

Monitoring <strong>the</strong> treatment <strong>of</strong> prisoners<br />

<strong>of</strong> war<br />

Visiting prisoners <strong>of</strong> war and political<br />

prisoners<br />

Organizing family reunifi cation and<br />

searching for missing persons (tracing<br />

service)<br />

Protecting and taking care <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> civilian<br />

population<br />

Mediating between opposing parties in<br />

a confl ict<br />

<strong>The</strong> ICRC runs and coordinates <strong>the</strong> international<br />

relief activities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

& <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement during armed<br />

confl icts.<br />

© ICRC


4.2 INTERNATIONAL<br />

HUMANITARIAN LAW<br />

� ‘Law <strong>of</strong> War’ for <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> wounded, prisoners, aid workers,<br />

civilians, and cultural assets in armed<br />

confl icts<br />

� Restricting <strong>the</strong> means and methods<br />

<strong>of</strong> warfare used by <strong>the</strong> combatants<br />

� Almost all States are signatories to<br />

<strong>the</strong> Geneva Conventions<br />

� Monitoring compliance: ICRC<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational Humanitarian Law (IHL) aims<br />

to minimize <strong>the</strong> consequences <strong>of</strong> armed<br />

confl icts. It helps to protect <strong>the</strong> civilian<br />

population, wounded soldiers and medical<br />

personnel that are not actively involved in<br />

<strong>the</strong> military action. <strong>In</strong> addition it helps to<br />

restrict <strong>the</strong> means and methods <strong>of</strong> warfare.<br />

<strong>The</strong> IHL is also called <strong>the</strong> ‘Law <strong>of</strong> War’ or<br />

<strong>the</strong> ‘Law <strong>of</strong> Armed Confl ict’.<br />

<strong>The</strong> fi rst Geneva Convention was signed<br />

by 12 European States at a diplomatic<br />

conference convened by <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Federal<br />

Council in 1864. Two men played a major<br />

role in this: Henry Dunant and Guillaume<br />

Henri Dufour, both <strong>of</strong> whom were founding<br />

members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ICRC.<br />

Since <strong>the</strong>n <strong>the</strong> States, inspired by <strong>the</strong> bitter<br />

experiences <strong>of</strong> modern war, have agreed<br />

upon a series <strong>of</strong> conventions to regulate<br />

<strong>In</strong>ternational Humanitarian Law – ‘Law <strong>of</strong> War‘ for <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

wounded, prisoners, aid workers, civilians, and cultural assets in armed<br />

confl icts.<br />

<strong>the</strong> way war is waged. <strong>The</strong> conventions<br />

attempt to strike a careful balance between<br />

humanitarian concerns and <strong>the</strong> military<br />

requirements <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> States parties.<br />

Much <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> IHL can be found in <strong>the</strong> four<br />

Geneva Conventions <strong>of</strong> 1949. Practically<br />

every State in <strong>the</strong> world has signed <strong>the</strong>se<br />

Conventions. Since <strong>the</strong>n <strong>the</strong> Conventions<br />

have been fur<strong>the</strong>r developed and added<br />

to. <strong>The</strong> most recent adaptation is <strong>the</strong> recognition<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> red crystal as <strong>the</strong> third protective<br />

symbol <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Movement in 2006.<br />

47<br />

© ICRC


4.3 INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

RED CROSS & RED CRESCENT SOCIETIES (IFRC)<br />

Deployment in <strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong> natural<br />

and civil disasters<br />

Support for <strong>the</strong> National <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

and <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Societies<br />

Assistance for some 230 million<br />

people worldwide<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Federation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

& <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Societies is <strong>the</strong> worldwide<br />

association <strong>of</strong> National Societies. It was<br />

founded in 1919 on <strong>the</strong> initiative <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

American <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and <strong>the</strong> victorious<br />

allied forces after <strong>the</strong> First World War and<br />

has its headquarters in Geneva.<br />

48<br />

Since 1919 <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Federation has<br />

grown from its original fi ve members to its<br />

present-day membership <strong>of</strong> 186 National<br />

Societies. <strong>The</strong> Federation and its member<br />

Societies can call on some 100 million volunteers<br />

and members and 300,000 paid<br />

staff. Almost a quarter <strong>of</strong> a million people<br />

worldwide can avail <strong>the</strong>mselves <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> services<br />

<strong>the</strong>y provide.<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Federation’s work mainly<br />

comprises international disaster relief, help<br />

for refugees outside <strong>of</strong> confl ict zones and<br />

health care and health promotion at local<br />

level. <strong>In</strong> addition, <strong>the</strong> IFRC promotes col-<br />

© IFRC


laboration between <strong>the</strong> National Societies<br />

and supports <strong>the</strong>m in <strong>the</strong>ir work and<br />

development.<br />

<strong>The</strong> highest body <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Federation<br />

is <strong>the</strong> General Assembly, which<br />

meets every two years. Between two General<br />

Assemblies, <strong>the</strong> running <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> IFRC is<br />

in <strong>the</strong> hands <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Governing Board, which<br />

meets twice a year. <strong>The</strong> president <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

SRC or ano<strong>the</strong>r member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

Council is, by virtue <strong>of</strong> his/her position, one<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fi ve vice-presidents <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Federation.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Federation Secretariat in Geneva and<br />

its fi eld delegations are in charge <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

operational implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Federation’s<br />

goals.<br />

© IFRC, Christopher Black<br />

© IFRC


Goals and tasks <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> IFRC<br />

Four core areas:<br />

� Promoting <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> principles and<br />

humanitarian values<br />

� Disaster response<br />

� Disaster preparedness<br />

� Health care and promotion in <strong>the</strong><br />

community<br />

<strong>The</strong> goals and tasks <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> IFRC are defi ned<br />

in its Strategy 2010 which is <strong>the</strong> strategic<br />

framework <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Federation and its 186<br />

members.<br />

<strong>In</strong> accordance with <strong>the</strong> Strategy 2010 <strong>the</strong><br />

mission <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Federation is ‘to<br />

improve <strong>the</strong> lives <strong>of</strong> vulnerable people by<br />

mobilizing <strong>the</strong> power <strong>of</strong> humanity’.<br />

50<br />

© IFRC<br />

A <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> worker during an HIV/AIDS education campaign.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Strategy 2010 defi nes <strong>the</strong> following<br />

four core areas that are to be carried out<br />

by <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Federation and its 186<br />

member Societies:<br />

1. Promoting <strong>the</strong> principles and humanitarian<br />

values <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

& <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement<br />

2. Disaster response<br />

3. Disaster preparedness<br />

4. Providing health-care services and promoting<br />

health in <strong>the</strong> community<br />

During an event run by <strong>the</strong> Nepal Junior <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> pupils openly discuss<br />

HIV/AIDS and sexual issues. An open discussion like this would be<br />

unlikely in <strong>the</strong> presence <strong>of</strong> adults.<br />

© IFRC, Yoshi Shimizu


4.4 NATIONAL RED CROSS AND RED CRESCENT SOCIETIES<br />

� 186 National Societies<br />

�<br />

Around 100 million volunteers and<br />

members<br />

� 300,000 staff<br />

<strong>The</strong> 186 National Societies put into practice<br />

<strong>the</strong> Movement’s objectives and principles.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re can only be one <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> or <strong>Red</strong><br />

Crescent Society in any one country (principle<br />

<strong>of</strong> Unity). It must be recognized by <strong>the</strong><br />

ICRC and be able to carry on its work in<br />

accordance with <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Fundamental<br />

Principles (principle <strong>of</strong> <strong>In</strong>dependence).<br />

<strong>The</strong> National Societies help <strong>the</strong> national<br />

authorities to carry out <strong>the</strong>ir humanitarian<br />

commitments and provide a whole range<br />

<strong>of</strong> services in <strong>the</strong> following sectors:<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

Promoting <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> principles and<br />

humanitarian values<br />

Disaster preparedness and disaster relief<br />

Health care and promotion in <strong>the</strong> community<br />

Help for HIV/Aids victims and prevention<br />

First-aid training and medical services<br />

Blood transfusion services<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> is recognized by <strong>the</strong><br />

ICRC and <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> Federal Council as <strong>the</strong><br />

National <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Society <strong>of</strong> Switzerland.<br />

© IFRC, Gauthier Lefèvre


© SRC, Cati Cottier


5<br />

This chapter contains excerpts from <strong>the</strong> book ‘Humanity for<br />

all – <strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement’<br />

by Hans Haug, Henry Dunant <strong>In</strong>stitute, Geneva.<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

THE SEVEN FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES<br />

OF THE RED CROSS<br />

HUMANITY<br />

IMPARTIALITY<br />

NEUTRALITY<br />

INDEPENDENCE<br />

VOLUNTARY SERVICE<br />

UNITY<br />

UNIVERSALITY<br />

Although <strong>the</strong> origin <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> is not<br />

based on abstract principles, but on <strong>the</strong><br />

spontaneous action <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> people who, on<br />

<strong>the</strong> battlefi eld <strong>of</strong> Solferino in 1859, came<br />

to <strong>the</strong> aid <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> wounded and dying, a<br />

search was made early on for principles<br />

and guidelines for <strong>the</strong> humanitarian Movement<br />

that was to be created. <strong>The</strong> fi rst<br />

defi nitions are to be found in Henry Dunant’s<br />

book ‘A Memory <strong>of</strong> Solferino’ (1862).<br />

It took many years more, until 8 October<br />

1965, before <strong>the</strong> 20 th <strong>In</strong>ternational Conference<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> in Vienna adopted<br />

and proclaimed <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Charter.<br />

<strong>The</strong> seven Fundamental Principles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> are binding for all members <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Movement. This means that a National Soci-<br />

ety may only be recognized by <strong>the</strong> ICRC if<br />

it adheres to <strong>the</strong> Fundamental Principles <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Fundamental Principles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

defi ne <strong>the</strong> humanitarian principles that must<br />

not be violated or misused against human<br />

beings. <strong>The</strong>y <strong>of</strong>fer all those who commit<br />

<strong>the</strong>mselves under <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> emblem a<br />

practical aid in <strong>the</strong>ir activity. It is important<br />

that <strong>the</strong> seven Fundamental Principles from<br />

<strong>the</strong> ideal, factual and logical points <strong>of</strong> view<br />

are closely related and form a whole; only<br />

<strong>the</strong> whole Charter defi nes <strong>the</strong> Movement<br />

and gives it its special character or uniqueness.<br />

HUMANITY is <strong>the</strong> main principle and <strong>the</strong><br />

ethical basis for <strong>the</strong> activities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong> and <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movment. All<br />

o<strong>the</strong>r Fundamental Principles can only be<br />

interpreted in <strong>the</strong> light <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> premise <strong>of</strong><br />

Humanity. For example, inhumanity cannot<br />

be committed on <strong>the</strong> premise <strong>of</strong> Neutrality.<br />

<strong>In</strong> <strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong> a confl ict with any o<strong>the</strong>r<br />

principle, <strong>the</strong> principle <strong>of</strong> Humanity takes<br />

precedence. <strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>the</strong>refore<br />

makes a public statement, for example, if<br />

<strong>the</strong> principle <strong>of</strong> Humanity is under threat.<br />

53


Humanity<br />

Everyone everywhere is a fellow<br />

human being.<br />

‘<strong>The</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Movement, born <strong>of</strong> a desire to bring<br />

assistance without discrimination to <strong>the</strong><br />

wounded on <strong>the</strong> battlefi eld, endeavours,<br />

in its international and national capacity,<br />

to prevent and alleviate human suffering<br />

wherever it may be found. Its purpose is<br />

to protect life and health and to ensure<br />

respect for <strong>the</strong> human being. It promotes<br />

mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation<br />

and lasting peace among all peoples.‘<br />

<strong>The</strong> principle <strong>of</strong> Humanity plays a special<br />

role within <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Movement. Were it intended to condense<br />

<strong>the</strong> Fundamental Principles into a single<br />

principle or to deduce <strong>the</strong>m from a single<br />

principle, this would be <strong>the</strong> principle <strong>of</strong><br />

Humanity.<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> acts in such a way that <strong>the</strong><br />

human being and <strong>the</strong> respect for human<br />

dignity are at <strong>the</strong> centre <strong>of</strong> its work. <strong>In</strong> its<br />

way <strong>of</strong> thinking and its acts <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

ensures that it sets an example <strong>of</strong> how this<br />

dignity is not violated. <strong>The</strong>re are plenty <strong>of</strong><br />

opportunities for this: caring for <strong>the</strong> elderly<br />

in <strong>the</strong>ir twilight years, looking after refugees,<br />

providing help for <strong>the</strong> homeless, preventing<br />

racist abuse by upholding moral<br />

values in everyday life, etc.<br />

54<br />

Impartiality<br />

Help in need knows no distinctions.<br />

‘<strong>The</strong> Movement makes no discrimination as<br />

to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or<br />

political opinions. It endeavours to relieve<br />

<strong>the</strong> suffering <strong>of</strong> individuals, being guided<br />

solely by <strong>the</strong>ir needs, and to give priority to<br />

<strong>the</strong> most urgent cases <strong>of</strong> distress.‘<br />

<strong>The</strong> dictate <strong>of</strong> equal treatment refers to all<br />

<strong>the</strong> protective, relief and care activities <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement.<br />

<strong>The</strong> suffering individual shall receive protection,<br />

relief and care in equal measure<br />

and in an equal way, without any disadvantageous,<br />

irrelevant and <strong>the</strong>reby discriminatory<br />

differences.<br />

Through <strong>the</strong> precept <strong>of</strong> due proportion, all<br />

members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Movement endeavour in<br />

<strong>the</strong>ir relief activities to be guided solely by<br />

<strong>the</strong> extent <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> need, and to give priority<br />

to <strong>the</strong> most urgent cases. <strong>The</strong> greatest need<br />

shall be met with <strong>the</strong> greatest relief; <strong>the</strong><br />

most urgent need shall receive <strong>the</strong> quickest<br />

help.<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> does not distinguish between<br />

victims and perpetrators and does not ask<br />

what caused <strong>the</strong> need. <strong>The</strong> measure <strong>of</strong><br />

need, i.e. <strong>the</strong> extent <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> injury, is <strong>the</strong> criterion<br />

for who it shall help fi rst. <strong>The</strong> <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong> helps wherever <strong>the</strong> need is greatest<br />

and not where it feels <strong>the</strong> most empathy.


Neutrality<br />

Humanitarian relief needs everyone’s<br />

trust.<br />

‘<strong>In</strong> order to continue to enjoy <strong>the</strong> confi dence<br />

<strong>of</strong> all, <strong>the</strong> Movement may not take sides<br />

in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies<br />

<strong>of</strong> a political, racial, religious or<br />

ideological nature.’<br />

Neutrality means that we abstain from any<br />

participating in hostilities and all political,<br />

racial, religious or ideological controversies.<br />

Those who take sides or interfere may<br />

estrange or deceive one side or <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r,<br />

push <strong>the</strong>m away and lose <strong>the</strong>ir confi dence.<br />

<strong>The</strong> confi dence <strong>of</strong> all is essential for <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement to fulfi l its<br />

humanitarian mission.<br />

However, at <strong>the</strong> same time <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> &<br />

<strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement is required by <strong>the</strong><br />

principle <strong>of</strong> humanity to speak out in favour<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> vulnerable and to point out injustice<br />

(‘advocacy’).<br />

<strong>The</strong> principle <strong>of</strong> neutrality distinguishes <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Movement from<br />

o<strong>the</strong>r humanitarian organizations. It makes<br />

<strong>the</strong> Movement unique.<br />

<strong>In</strong>dependence<br />

Autonomy protects our Fundamental<br />

Principles.<br />

‘<strong>The</strong> Movement is independent. <strong>The</strong> National<br />

Societies, while auxiliaries in <strong>the</strong> humanitarian<br />

services <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir governments and<br />

subject to <strong>the</strong> laws <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir respective countries,<br />

must always maintain <strong>the</strong>ir autonomy<br />

so that <strong>the</strong>y may be able at all times to<br />

act in accordance with <strong>the</strong> principles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

Movement.‘<br />

Even though <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> is <strong>the</strong><br />

only <strong>of</strong>fi cially (i.e. by <strong>the</strong> Federal Council)<br />

recognized humanitarian organization,<br />

it maintains its independence and resists<br />

any political or economic pressure at all<br />

times. <strong>The</strong> same applies to <strong>the</strong> infl uence<br />

from <strong>the</strong> media or <strong>the</strong> general public. On<br />

<strong>the</strong> contrary, to maintain its independence<br />

<strong>the</strong> SRC avoids any political, ideological or<br />

economic interference.<br />

Cooperation with and support <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

authorities in <strong>the</strong> humanitarian fi eld are<br />

one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> basic functions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> SRC and<br />

all o<strong>the</strong>r National Societies. <strong>The</strong> role <strong>of</strong><br />

‘auxiliary to <strong>the</strong> public authorities’ does not<br />

prevent <strong>the</strong> SRC from carrying out freely<br />

selected activities in complete independence<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State.<br />

55


Voluntary service<br />

Relief is provided without any desire for<br />

gain.<br />

‘It is a voluntary relief movement not prompted<br />

in any manner by desire for gain.‘<br />

Altruism does not exclude appropriate<br />

remuneration. To ensure that a voluntary<br />

organization is effective, it requires effi -<br />

cient, slim-line, pr<strong>of</strong>essional structures. <strong>The</strong><br />

voluntary service <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> employees <strong>of</strong> <strong>Red</strong><br />

<strong>Cross</strong> organizations lies in <strong>the</strong> preparedness<br />

to place <strong>the</strong>mselves out <strong>of</strong> free personal<br />

conviction entirely at <strong>the</strong> service <strong>of</strong><br />

people in need.<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> carries out its work with <strong>the</strong><br />

greatest personal quality, commitment and<br />

modesty. Voluntary service never means<br />

a lack <strong>of</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>essionalism. Regardless <strong>of</strong><br />

whe<strong>the</strong>r it is as a full-time job, a part-time<br />

job, or without any remuneration, <strong>the</strong> voluntary<br />

work is always pr<strong>of</strong>essional and sustained<br />

by a personal commitment.<br />

Unity<br />

Just one per country and open to all.<br />

‘<strong>The</strong>re can only be one National <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

or <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Society in any one country.<br />

It must be open to all. It must carry on its<br />

humanitarian work throughout its territory.’<br />

Must everyone be accepted if <strong>the</strong>y want<br />

to become a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

or undertake voluntary work? <strong>In</strong> principle<br />

yes, in application <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> principle <strong>of</strong> nondiscrimination<br />

(no-one is refused on <strong>the</strong><br />

basis <strong>of</strong> his geographical or social origins,<br />

56<br />

religious convictions, etc.). However, it is a<br />

condition that a person wishing to join must<br />

identify with <strong>the</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> principles. Volunteers<br />

must also be apt for <strong>the</strong> work <strong>the</strong>y<br />

wish to do.<br />

<strong>The</strong> principle <strong>of</strong> Unity requires that <strong>the</strong>re<br />

are no two different or even rival Societies<br />

in <strong>the</strong> same country. <strong>The</strong> National Society<br />

must carry on its work throughout <strong>the</strong><br />

national territory. It may not, for example,<br />

on account <strong>of</strong> national tensions or secessionist<br />

efforts, exclude part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> national<br />

territory or any sector <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> population.<br />

Universality<br />

Humanitarian duty is a worldwide task.<br />

‘<strong>The</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> & <strong>Red</strong> Crescent<br />

Movement, in which all Societies have<br />

equal status and share equal responsibilities<br />

and duties in helping each o<strong>the</strong>r, is worldwide.’<br />

<strong>The</strong> individual National Societies are independent<br />

<strong>of</strong> each o<strong>the</strong>r and free. <strong>The</strong>ir role is<br />

always fi rst and foremost national. If, in <strong>the</strong><br />

event <strong>of</strong> a crisis, war or natural disasters<br />

<strong>the</strong> individual National Societies can no<br />

longer cope alone, <strong>the</strong>y are supported by<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>In</strong>ternational Federation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

& <strong>Red</strong> Crescent Societies and <strong>the</strong> ICRC in a<br />

spirit <strong>of</strong> solidarity. However, <strong>the</strong>y never<strong>the</strong>less<br />

remain <strong>the</strong> leading <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> or <strong>Red</strong><br />

Crescent Society in <strong>the</strong>ir country.


If you would like to fi nd out more about <strong>the</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>, any <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> topics<br />

covered in this brochure, or current projects, consult <strong>the</strong> SRC website at<br />

www.redcross.ch<br />

Donations for greater humanity: Post account 30-9700-0.<br />

We thank you wholeheartedly for your support.<br />

IMPRESSUM<br />

Published by: <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

Layout: SRC, graphic-print<br />

Cover photo: Heino Heimann<br />

Print-run: 500<br />

April 2008<br />

printed on FSC-certifi ed paper


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />

Many people in Switzerland and o<strong>the</strong>r countries live a life in adversity. <strong>The</strong><br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and its various member organizations – <strong>the</strong> Samaritans,<br />

<strong>the</strong> Air-Rescue Association, <strong>the</strong> Life-Saving Association, and <strong>the</strong> Blood Transfusion<br />

Service – come to <strong>the</strong>ir aid. No o<strong>the</strong>r relief organization combines such a<br />

wide variety <strong>of</strong> strengths in <strong>the</strong> health, integration and rescue sectors as <strong>the</strong><br />

SRC. With its permanent staff and its countless volunteers, it is fi rmly anchored<br />

in <strong>the</strong> community throughout <strong>the</strong> country. <strong>The</strong> SRC is independent, neutral <strong>of</strong><br />

religion and politics, and is open to everyone.<br />

This brochure explains what <strong>the</strong> SRC is, how it came about, and what work it<br />

is currently involved in.<br />

<strong>Swiss</strong> <strong>Red</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>

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