Statement on the Hellenic Red Cross reinstated as a member of IFRC

Geneva, 10 December 2019 – The Governing Board of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has lifted the suspension of Hellenic Red Cross with immediate effect.

The Governing Board recognized that Hellenic Red Cross has made significant progress since being suspended on 1 January 2019, after concerns relating to its governance. That progress includes: A complete revision of the Hellenic Red Cross statutes, raising of the membership from 2,000 to more than 20,000, holding a successful General Assembly and design of a recovery plan.

Announcing the return of Hellenic Red Cross, IFRC President Francesco Rocca said it was positive news for the whole Red Cross Red Crescent Movement.

“We showed that integrity and accountability are key priorities for us, and we have the systems in place to detect any possible issue and to act accordingly. It is very important to have a well functioning National Society in Greece where there are many humanitarian challenges.

“We are deeply committed to supporting the Hellenic Red Cross and its activities for its local communities and vulnerable migrants in the country.”

IFRC Secretary General Elhadj As Sy said he encouraged all Red Cross Red Crescent National Societies to “stand ready to support the Hellenic Red Cross in its path to re-establish itself as the strong and healthy National Society”.

However, the Governing Board noted that the Hellenic Red Cross still has areas to improve, and has requested the Compliance and Mediation Committee (CMC) to continue its monitoring role and further support the Hellenic Red Cross. In addition, the suspension measure can be reinstated at any time in case of regress.

Mr Rocca said IFRC remains committed to the volunteers and staff of the Hellenic Red Cross, and to supporting the renewal of an effective, vibrant and viable Hellenic Red Cross.

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