The official opening of the 15th Session of the General Assembly of the International Federation, the organization’s highest decision-making body, saw all in attendance reminded of the unique value and relevance of the work of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and of the importance of this Assembly in ensuring that the Federation continues to meet the needs of the world’s vulnerable.
In his welcoming address, the President of the Republic of Korea National Red Cross, Mr Han Wan-Sang, reminded the 800 delegates that the lives and dignities of countless people are still threatened by armed conflicts and natural disasters.
“The Movement has been at the lead in alleviating the hardship suffered by people caught up in these crises, both man-made and natural,” said Mr Han.
“Let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of humanitarianism in a way that effectively responds to the challenges of the present century.”
He also stressed the importance of disaster preparedness and timely response. “Now is the time to take into consideration the root causes of calamities,” he said, pointing to the necessity of increased cooperation and coordination among humanitarian actors.
This call for continued commitment and development was echoed by the President of the International Federation, Juan Manuel Suárez del Toro.
“Inequality continues to threaten and attack the lives and dignity of thousands,” he noted. “May this General Assembly be the beginning of a future of hope for all.”
He reiterated the Federation’s humanitarian commitment to defeat the injustice of poverty and violence, to achieve food security, to allow people access to acceptable levels of health and education, to protect the environment and to achieve gender equality, among others.
Finally, in a congratulatory address, the President of the Republic of Korea, Mr Roh Moo-Hyun, thanked the Federation and National Societies for their ongoing efforts to improve the lives of those in need. He reiterated his belief in solidarity and noted that high tech was not the solution to problems such as hunger, disease, exclusion and environmental degradation.
“We all share the same hope – to overcome conflict, to establish peace, and to ensure human dignity,” said the President.
The ceremony was brought to a close with a breathtaking performance of the traditional Korean Ogumu drum dance by the Kook Soo-Ho Didim Dance Company.