Geneva, 16 June 2025 - The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Governing Board, at its session on 12 June 2025, decided to welcome the Government of Nepal's support in resolving the governance crisis at the Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS).
The NRCS has historically been among the IFRC’s strongest members, with extensive volunteer presence throughout the country and a track record of effective public health and disaster risk management action.
In recent years, however, disputes among different groups claiming the right to serve as NRCS’s Central Executive Committee, as well as evidence of the infiltration of politicization in the NRCS’ internal elections and processes, in violation of the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, have created an ongoing crisis.
In response to an IFRC request, the Government of Nepal has committed to corrective actions within a two-month timeframe. This includes the establishment of an ad-hoc independent committee tasked with reviewing and amending the NRCS’ constitution, as well as organizing elections for a new and impartial Central Executive Committee of the NRCS.
At the Government’s request, the IFRC has agreed to place on hold institutional sanctions against the NRCS for that period.
The IFRC warmly welcomes this constructive engagement and the Nepalese Government’s intention to enhance the integrity and independence of the NRCS. Such steps are vital for preserving trust in the Red Cross in Nepal and protecting its Fundamental Principles, including neutrality.
The IFRC remains dedicated to supporting the communities in Nepal and the NRCS in delivering principled humanitarian assistance nationwide, while upholding the Fundamental Principles and standards of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
The IFRC will continue to monitor the situation in contact with the authorities and the National Society. If there are no positive developments in two months, however, the possibility of sanctions remains.
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In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 43 67 – Scott Craig, +41 76 370 35 75