Sixty years ago, as a response to profound human suffering, the Fundamental Principles
of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement were adopted. They were
born from the conviction that humanitarian action must transcend politics, borders, and
divisions - anchored in humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary
service, unity, and universality.

For our National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, these principles are not abstract
ideals. They are the foundation of their daily work in communities across the world,
enabling them to respond to disasters, conflicts, health crises, and the challenges of
migration and displacement with compassion and fairness, regardless of who is
affected.

Today, in a world facing unprecedented crises, these principles remain our strongest
compass. They allow National Societies to act swiftly when earthquakes strike, when
floods devastate, when droughts destroy livelihoods, and when pandemics disrupt lives.

These principles ensure that our volunteers and staff can help people without
discrimination, and that every individual is seen as a human being with dignity, rights,
and aspirations.

Yet principles alone are not enough. Living by them requires courage, humility, and
resolve. National Societies need an enabling environment in which they can carry out
their auxiliary role to public authorities in the humanitarian field - fully recognized,
respected, and supported.

Therefore, we, the members of the Governing Board of the International Federation of
Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, in line with the resolutions of the 2024 Council of
Delegates and 34th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, call
upon all governments and partners to:

• Ensure the legal recognition of National Societies and their ability to act according
to the Fundamental Principles.
• Respect their independence, impartiality, and neutrality at all times.
• Facilitate their humanitarian mission and guarantee safe and unhindered access
to those in need.

On this 60th anniversary, we honour not only the vision that gave birth to these principles,
but the daily courage of millions of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and staff who
live them out.

The Fundamental Principles are not relics of the past; they are living commitments. It is
our shared responsibility to ensure that they remain the guiding light for us for the
decades to come.