Mission Statement
The American Red Cross, a humanitarian
organization led by volunteers and guided by its
Congressional Charter and the Fundamental
Principles of the International Red Cross
Movement, will provide relief to victims of
disaster and help people prevent, prepare for, and
respond to emergencies.
Fundamental Principles of the International
Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
Humanity
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent
Movement, born of a desire to bring assistance
without discrimination to the wounded on the
battlefield endeavours, in its international and
national capacity, to prevent and alleviate
human suffering wherever it may be found. Its
purpose is to protect life and health and to
ensure respect for the human being. It
promotes mutual understanding, friendship,
cooperation and lasting peace among all
peoples.
Impartiality
It makes no discrimination as to
nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or
political opinions. It endeavours to relieve
the suffering of individuals, being guided solely
by their needs, and to give priority to the most
urgent cases of distress.
Neutrality
In order to continue to enjoy the confidence
of all, the Movement may not take sides in
hostilities or engage at any time in
controversies of a political, racial,
religious or ideological nature.
Independence
The Movement is independent. The National
Societies, while auxiliaries in the
humanitarian services of their governments and
subject to the laws of their respective countries,
must always maintain their autonomy so that
they may be able at all times to act in accordance
with the principles of the Movement.
Voluntary
Service
It is a voluntary relief
movement not prompted in any manner by
desire for gain.
Unity
There can be only one Red Cross or one Red
Crescent Society in any one country. It must
be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian
work throughout its territory.
Universality
The International Red Cross and Red
Crescent Movement, in which all Societies have
equal status and share equal responsibilities and
duties in helping each other, is
worldwide.
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