Appeal seeks to provide health services and rebuild Iraqi Red Crescent as a major element in civil society
8 September 2003

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies today launched a revised appeal for 31 million Swiss francs to help the Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS) rebuild its structure and capacities, especially in the area of health services.

Close to a million people in all of Iraq’s 18 governorates will benefit from a campaign to fight diarrhoea, malnutrition and HIV/AIDS. This is a crucial need in a country whose health infrastructure has been all but obliterated by sanctions and hostilities.

“The appeal comes at a very important time. The vulnerability of ordinary Iraqis is increasing at an alarming rate due to the destruction of the basic health and social services. It is particularly important in the present climate that this major element in Iraqi civil society is restored to its full capacity,” said Ibrahim Osman, head of the Federation’s delegation in Iraq.

The burden on the Iraqi Red Crescent is growing every day. Large numbers of Iraqis are coming home to rebuild their lives and be with their families. “They will also have needs, along with all those who are currently jobless, or who fear to leave their homes due to the poor security situation,” stated Dr. Jamal Al Karbouli, president of the Iraqi Red Crescent Society. A Federation driver, Salah Jubeir, was killed off-duty in Baghdad last week when he was shot by persons unknown.

The Iraqi Red Crescent’s own infrastructure has suffered over the past months and years. Money raised by the Federation appeal will be used to rehabilitate its national headquarters and 18 branch offices. The Federation will also provide vehicles, office equipment, communication tools and training materials. Additionally, it will help strengthen financial, human resources, administration and logistics systems.

Over the next 18 months, funds raised will be used to train former and new volunteers in first aid, disaster preparedness and response, and psychological support. “The number of our volunteers is increasing every day. Some 750 new volunteers have enrolled during the past two months. We need the assistance of the Federation to train them and reinforce their skills,” said Dr. Al Karbouli. The IRCS is preparing to double its volunteer base from 3,000 to 6,000 by the end of the year.

Two centres for rehabilitation of war victims will be constructed to provide vocational education where 600 people will gain new skills. “The IRCS has a leading role to play in the reconstruction of civil society,” noted Osman. “It is a tremendous force for reconciliation as it brings together all ethnic groups and addresses the needs of the vulnerable without discriminating.”

The Federation has supported the IRCS since 1991, and has already rehabilitated 44 primary health care centres, as well as reconstructing the IRCS maternity hospital in Baghdad.

For further information, or to set up interviews, please contact:

Denis McClean, Head, Media Service - Tel: + 41 22 730 44 28 / + 41 79 217 33 57
Rana Sidani, Press Officer - Tel: + 41 22 730 43 41 / + 41 79 217 33 65
Media Service Duty Phone - Tel: + 41 79 416 38 81

The Geneva-based International Federation promotes the humanitarian activities of 181 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies among vulnerable people. By coordinating international disaster relief and encouraging development support, it seeks to prevent and alleviate human suffering. The Federation, National Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross together, constitute the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.