Search

  • 2661 results found

If you are searching for an appeal document, please visit our dedicated Appeals page. If you are searching for an evaluation of, or research related to, our work, please visit our dedicated Evaluations and research page.

|
Podcast

‘A month of giving’ during ‘unprecedented suffering’: IFRC’s director for the Middle East and North Africa reflects on Ramadan and acts of kindness amidst conflict and tragedy

As Muslims around the world celebrate Ramadan, IFRC’s regional director for the Middle East and North Africa, Hossam Elsharkawi, reflects on the humanitarian crises impacting his region and on what Muslims consider a sacred month of fasting, giving and prayer.“Through fasting, you feel what's it like to be hungry, what's it like to be thirsty,” says Elsharkawi. “Ramadan is also a month of giving, when people share their meals and give more to charity.” Elsharkawi explains the time-honoured tradition of giving in the Islamic world, and about a campaign launched during Ramadan by the IFRC to accept zakat, a traditional form of giving in Muslim culture.

Read more
|
Article

Ebola outbreak in Uganda: Red Cross providing lifesaving support to communities as response continues

What is the current situation with the Ebola outbreak in Uganda?“On 30 January, Uganda’s Ministry of Health declared the country’s eighth outbreak of Ebola virus following the death of a nurse in the capital, Kampala. Contacts of this index case were traced. Those who tested positive for Ebola were successfully treated and discharged, triggering the countdown to declare the outbreak over. But then another cluster of cases was detected following the death of a young boy on 24 February. The boy’s mother and her newborn baby had also passed away a few weeks earlier, and their deaths are being treated as probable Ebola cases.”“As it stands, 12 Ebola cases have been confirmed, including two confirmed deaths, with an additional two probable cases—across six districts in Uganda: Kampala, Jinja, Kyegegwe, Mbale, Ntoroko and Wakiso.”“Although we have technically begun the second countdown, there remains a lot of uncertainty and the risk that there may still be cases within the community persists. Epidemiologists and surveillance teams are working hard to identify how these cases may have overlapped, as it is concerning that cases have been reported in different areas spread out across the country.”“We are supporting the Ugandan Ministry of Health, which has activated scenario two of its National Response Plan: ‘sustain’. This means there’s been a delay in the detection of cases outside the known contact list and that we must plan for the next 210 days— the period of at least 10 Ebola incubation cycles—rather than just focusing on the short term.”How is this outbreak different from previous Ebola outbreaks the country has faced, and are there any specific challenges?“There are several key differences to this outbreak. Firstly,cases have been reported mainly in cities and densely populated areassuch as Kampala and Wakiso, compared to the 2022 Ebola outbreak which struck the small town of Mubende. This makes contact tracing challenging due to the high population density, the fact that people are moving around a lot – both domestically and potentially internationally. And it increases the risk of transmission because people live in close proximity, sharing public spaces and transport.”“Secondly, the fact that the first case was detected post-mortem in the national referral hospital presents achallenge for the surveillance system. If it had been detected sooner, it would have been easier to conduct contact tracing and minimize the spread.”“Finally, and very importantly,this outbreak came while we are also fighting another epidemic: mpox. We had already been responding to mpox for some time and we now need to integrate both responses. It also means we have to adapt our risk communication efforts within communities, making sure they are aware of both diseases, the signs to look out for, the ways they can stay safe.”“On the positive side, all Ebola cases that have been confirmed and who have received treatment in this outbreak have been able to survive. Whereas there was a high case fatality rate during the last outbreak in 2022, so far we’re seeing a 100% recovery rate when cases are detected in time.”How is the Uganda Red Cross Society supporting the response?“We are doing a lot of different activities in support of the Ministry of Health, complementing their response and filling any gaps. We are involved incase management, supporting with emergency evacuations of suspected cases and referrals through our ambulance system.”“Our volunteers are doing a huge amount ofrisk communication and community engagement to explain the risks of both Ebola and mpox to the population, encouraging them to take preventive measures and report any unusual health symptoms. This includes addressing any rumours and concerns people have—sometimes we have to convince people that Ebola is even real.”“We have alsoactivated trained Safe and Dignified Burials (SDB) teams across the country who are ready to deploy if someone is confirmed to have died from Ebola in the community. These teams are trained to properly engage the community, helping them understand why the burial needs to happen in a certain way to prevent spread of the disease, and reassuring them. Because it’s a difficult time for the community. We have to get their approval.”How has Uganda Red Cross improved its preparedness for epidemics in recent years, and how is this helping with the response now?“The past few years we have really developed the tools, structures, and the technical capacity required to respond to outbreaks on this scale thanks to support from IFRC and our donors. On the human resource side, many of our staff and volunteers have been trained in safe and dignified burials, community-based surveillance, and risk communication and community engagement. These are personnel we have in-house and deploy straight away—we don’t need to wait for outside help to come in. We also already had equipment—vehicles, communication materials, prepositioned personal protective equipment (PPE) that we could use straight away.”“Something really important is that we already had an operational community-based surveillance system, which has been well-tested over many years. Although this isn’t nationwide, which would require significant resources, it has been an important part of our epidemic preparedness efforts in select, high-risk areas of the country. And we are now working to implement CBS in Ebola outbreak areas as part of our response so that volunteers can report suspected cases for rapid response.”“We have also worked closely with the Ministry of Health and other authorities on epidemic preparedness and response in recent years, which means our role is well-understood and we have good coordination systems in place to work together when disease outbreaks strike.”--For the latest updates on Uganda Red Cross Society’s response to Ebola and mpox,follow them on X orvisit the URCS website.You can also click here to donate to the IFRC’s Uganda Ebola outbreak appeal and support their lifesaving work.In recent years, the Uganda Red Cross Society has worked hard to improve its epidemic preparedness and response with support from:TheCommunity Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Programme (CP3), funded by USAIDTheProgrammatic Partnership, funded by the European UnionAnEbola preparedness emergency appeal(2018-2021) and aDisaster Response Emergency Fund (IFRC-DREF) operation(2018-2020)

Read more
|
Article

Red Cross helplines offering mental health resources in Ukrainian

The conflict in Ukraine has exposed people to extremely distressing situations. People have lost loved ones, homes and jobs. Many have witnessed traumatic events or are now finding their way in countries, far from friends and family, among people who do not share their language.At times like this, it’s important to have someone to talk to. This is why Red Cross National Societies around Europe are there to offer a listening ear. From Bulgaria to Spain, Red Cross National Societies are offering telephone helplines, staffed by trained staff and volunteers who speak Ukrainian, to offer emotional and psychological support. During times of stress, it’s important to recognize and talk about your emotional well-being. Here below you will find a list of helplines and addresses that offer mental health and psychosocial support in Ukrainian.Гарячі лінії Червоного Хреста пропонують психологічну підтримку українською мовою.Завжди важливо мати можливість поділитися своїми почуттями з кимось, коли ви переживаєте складні моменти. Від Болгарії до Ісландії, Національні Товариства Червоного Хреста в Європі готові вислухати вас. Ви можете зателефонувати на гарячу лінію допомоги, де працюють досвідчені оператори, які володіють українською мовою, щоб надати вам підтримку у важкі моменти.Під час стресу дуже важливо розпізнавати свої почуття і відкрито говорити про них. Якщо ви відчуваєте потребу в розмові з кимось, будь ласка, не соромтеся звертатися до гарячих ліній психологічної та психосоціальної підтримки в країні вашого поточного проживання.Нижче ви знайдете список гарячих ліній та адреси, де можна отримати психологічну допомогу українською мовою.Bulgarian Red CrossHelpline (National Contact Centre):Tel.: 080011466Болгарський Червоний ХрестТелефон гарячої лінії допомоги (Національний контактний центр):Тел: 080011466Czech Red CrossThe official Czech Red Cross website offers information and tools on psychosocial support and crisis preparedness:https://zvladnesto.cervenykriz.eu/en/home/Чеський Червоний ХрестОфіційний вебсайт Чеського Червоного Хреста пропонує інформацію та інструменти з психосоціальної підтримки та готовності до кризових ситуацій:https://zvladnesto.cervenykriz.eu/uk/Danish Red CrossThe Danish Red Cross developed a digital well-being site offering tools and techniques for managing crises, stress, sleep problems, family life, and self-care:www.rodekors.dk/trivselДанський Червоний ХрестДанський Червоний Хрест створив цифрову платформу благополуччя, яка пропонує інструменти та техніки для управління кризами, стресом, проблемами зі сном та сімейним життям і самодопомогою:www.rodekors.dk/trivselHellenic Red CrossMobile Health Unit Department of Thessaloniki:Tel.: +30 2310 531534Viber, Telegram, WhatsApp: +30 6936879405Multifunctional Athens Centre:Tel.: +30 210 5126300+30 210 5140440Viber, WhatsApp: +30 6934724893When: Monday to FridayMultifunctional Thessaloniki Centre:Tel.: +30 2310 270914+30 2310 270496Viber, WhatsApp: +30 6955563471When: Monday to FridayГрецький Червоний ХрестВідділ мобільного медичного пункту у м. Салоніки:Тел: +30 2310 531534Viber, Telegram, WhatsApp: +30 6936879405Багатофункціональний центр у м. Салоніки:Тел: +30 2310 270914+30 2310 270496Viber, WhatsApp: +30 6955563471Коли: з понеділка по п'ятницюБагатофункціональний центр в м. Афіни:Тел: +30 210 5126300+30 210 5140440Viber, WhatsApp: +30 6934724893Коли: з понеділка по п'ятницюIcelandic Red CrossThe Icelandic Red Cross established the Wellbeing4U service platform, implementing various MHPSS activities for adults and children, facilitated by Ukrainian-speaking staff and volunteers. About the Wellbeing4U project:https://www.raudikrossinn.is/english/projects/domestic-projects/refugees-and-migrants/refugees-and-migrants/Facebook group of the Wellbeing4U project:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1127060388638009Website for asylum seekers in Iceland about their rights and services:https://asylum.redcross.is/uk/homeІсландський Червоний ХрестІсландський Червоний Хрест створив сервісну платформу Wellbeing4U,щореалізує різноманітні заходи з психосоціальної підтримки (MHPSS) для дорослих і дітей.Проєкт Wellbeing4U:https://www.raudikrossinn.is/english/projects/domestic-projects/refugees-and-migrants/refugees-and-migrants/Facebook-група проєкту Wellbeing4U:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1127060388638009Вебсайт для шукачів притулку в Ісландії про їхні права та доступні послуги:https://asylum.redcross.is/uk/homeItalian Red CrossThe Italian Red Cross provides psychological support services to people displaced from Ukraine through various channels:The Telephone Psychological Support Service offers immediate psychological assistance:https://cri.it/eu4health/The email service provides information, guidance, and support to displaced individuals who reach out for help:[email protected]Італійський Червоний ХрестІталійський Червоний Хрест надає послуги психологічної підтримки для переселенців з України, через різні канали:Телефонна служба підтримки забезпечує негайну психологічну допомогу:https://cri.it/eu4health/Служба електронної пошти надає інформацію, консультації та підтримку переселенцям, які звертаються за допомогою:[email protected] Red CrossInfoline: Tel.: +48 800 088 136 (from within Poland) or +48 221 520 620 (from abroad).When: Monday to Friday from 09:00 AM to 17:00 PM.Польський Червоний ХрестІнформаційна лінія: Тел: +48 800 088 136 (з Польщі) або +48 221 520 620 (з-за кордону).Коли: з понеділка по п'ятницю з 09:00 до 17:00.Romanian Red CrossRed Cross call center in Romania:Tel.: +40 37 441 5000Telegram: @RomanianRedCrossViber: +40763983980WhatsApp: +40763983980When: Monday to Friday from 09:00 AM to 20:00 PM.Румунський Червоний ХрестТелефон гарячої лінії Червоного Хреста в Румунії:Тел: +40 37 441 5000.Телеграм: @RomanianRedCrossViber: +40763983980WhatsApp: +40763983980Коли: з понеділка по п'ятницю з 09:00 до 20:00.Russian Red CrossPsychosocial support helpline:Tel.: 8 (800) 250-18-59.Psychological support is available at the regional branches of the Russian Red Cross, as well as at the Russian Red Cross mobile support point in the Belgorod region.Російський Червоний ХрестГаряча лінія психосоціальної підтримки:Тел.: 8 (800) 250-18-59.Психологічну підтримку можна отримати в регіональних відділеннях Російського Червоного Хреста, а також в мобільному пункті підтримки Російського Червоного Хреста в Бєлгородській області.Slovakian Red CrossHelpline:Tel.: +421 910 910 116When: Monday to Friday from 09:00 AM to 17:00 PMLanguage: Slovak, Ukrainian, Russian, EnglishThe helpline could be overloaded; we kindly ask you for patience. You can also write us: [email protected]Словацький Червоний ХрестТел: +421 910 910 116Коли: з понеділка по п’ятницю з 9:00 до 17:00.Мова: словацька, українська, російська, англійськаЛінія може інколи бути перевантажена. В такому випадку, будьте терплячі або напишіть ваше питання або відгук на електронну пошту [email protected] Red Cross"Cruz Roja Te Escucha" service:Tel.: 900 107 917When: Monday to Thursday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM (one hour less in the Canary Islands) and on Fridays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (one hour less in the Canary Islands).Іспанський Червоний ХрестПослуга " Червоний Хрест слухає вас ":Тел.: 900 107 917Коли: з понеділка по четвер з 10:00 до 14:00 та з 16:00 до 20:00 (на Канарських островах на одну годину менше), у п'ятницю з 10:00 до 14:00 (на Канарських островах на одну годину менше).Swedish Red CrossThe web hub for MHPSS provides information in multiple formats and languages on stress and integrated psychosocial support:https://www.rodakorset.se/en/get-help/mental-health/Шведський Червоний ХрестВеб-платформа для психосоціальної підтримки (MHPSS) надає інформацію про стрес і комплексну психосоціальну допомогуу різних форматах та на різних мовах:https://www.rodakorset.se/uk/var-hjalp-i-sverige/psykisk-ohalsa/Swiss Red Cross"Helpful" website with important information (e.g. healthcare) including an integrated Telegram Channel: helpful.redcross.chIf you don’t find the information you need you can write to the Telegram channel: Telegram: Join Group ChatШвейцарський Червоний Хрест"Корисний" веб-сайт з важливою інформацією (наприклад, про охорону здоров'я), включаючи інтегрований Telegram-канал: helpful.redcross.chЯкщо ви не знайшли потрібної інформації, ви можете написати в Telegram-канал: Telegram: Join Group ChatUkraniain Red CrossInformation Center:Tel.: 0 800 332 656.To connect to a psychologist, select number 2 in the menu.When: from Monday to Friday, from 09:00 AM to 18:00 PM.Calls from the numbers of Ukrainian mobile operators are free and confidential.You can also leave a request for a consultation by e-mail: [email protected].Червоний Хрест УкраїниІнформаційний центр: 0 800 332 656.Для з’єднання з психологом потрібно обрати цифру 2 у меню.Коли: з понеділка по п’ятницю з 09:00 до 18:00.Дзвінки з номерів українських мобільних операторів безкоштовні та конфіденційні.Також можна залишити заявку для отримання консультації на електронній пошті: [email protected] resourcesWe've also gathered a collection of helpful resources, including articles and tips, to help improve your mental well-being.Video of self-care adviceThe well-being guide14 Day Well-Being KitHow to manage your exposure to news events and social mediaHow do you to talk to children about war?Saying goodbye to loved ones when it's difficultМи також зібрали корисні ресурси, включаючи статті та поради, які допоможуть покращити ваш психологічний стан.Відео з порадами щодо турботи про себеПосібник для доброго самопочуття 14-денний щоденник для доброго самопочуття Як контролювати вплив новинн і соціальних мереж на себеЯк говорити з дітьми про війну?Прощання з близькими людьми, коли це важкоTelegramViberIFRC Psychosocial Center

Read more
|
Article

Statement: The IFRC calls for access and information on the fate of nine missing Palestine Red Crescent medics

Geneva, 29 March 2025: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is standing with the Palestine Red Crescent and calling for urgent access and information following seven days of silence on the fate of nine medics in Gaza.The IFRC is gravely concerned for the ambulance crews of the Palestine Red Crescentwho came under heavy gunfire while responding in the early hours of 23 March in the Al-Hashashin area of Rafah. Since then, there has been no communication with the teams.International Humanitarian Law is clear that humanitarian and healthcare workers must be protected and respected.It is vital that there is information and access to ensure the safe return of these humanitarians to their families who are living in a nightmare without knowing if their loved ones are alive.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Beirut:Mey Al Sayegh: +961 761 744 68 In London:Nichola Jones: +44 771 545 99 56 In Geneva:Tommaso Della Longa: +41 79 708 43 67 

Read more
|
Document

EMERGENCY APPEAL - Myanmar, Asia Pacific | Myanmar Earthquake

On 28 March 2025, at 12:50 local time, an earthquake with of a magnitude of 7.7 on the Ritcher Scale was recorded in Myanmar. The epicenter, at a depth of 10 km, was located about 16 km north-north-west of Sagaing city, and 19 km north-west of Mandalay city, Myanmar’s second largest. Strong tremors were also felt in Thailand, and Yunnan Province, China. Myanmar has experienced at least 13 aftershocks, with registered magnitudes between 4.3 to 6.7.This Emergency Appeal aims to provide immediate relief, recovery and rehabilitation assistance to the most affected households in these areas. The Federation-wide target is 20,000 households or approximately 100,000 people, with the IFRC Secretariat Funding Ask aimed at assisting 15,000 households, or about 75,000 people, across Bago, South Shan, Magway, Mandalay, Naypyidaw and Sagaing.

Read more
|
Press release

IFRC supporting communities affected by major oil spill and floods in Ecuador

Quito/Panama City/Geneva, 25 March — The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has launched an emergency appeal for 4 million CHF to protect the health and livelihoods of communities in Ecuador affected by the ongoing floods and the devastating oil spill which occurred there on 13 March. The accumulation of these disasters has impacted over 500,000 people in the provinces of El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas and Manabi. The IFRC has also allocated from its Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) 497,000 CHF of the 4 million CHF needed to ensure aid reaches communities immediately.In Esmeraldas, the oil spill has contaminated the Esmeraldas River, several of its tributaries and the country's northern coast, forcing the government to declare a state of emergency. Since day one, Ecuadorian Red Cross volunteers have been on the ground distributing emergency water supplies, providing first aid, and assessing the spill’s impact. Mitigating the risks associated with traces of hydrocarbons in drinking water is a priority. The spill has forced the local authorities to suspend the supply of piped water and activate distribution via water trucks. Three Red Cross water purification plants have been installed and have produced 152,000 liters of clean water in two days, enough to address the basic needs of 10,000 people.“The oil spill in Esmeraldas is an environmental and humanitarian catastrophe, with a profound impact on local communities. The Ecuadorian Red Cross has deployed all its resources to provide immediate relief, but international support is critical to help more people, ensure a more effective response and speed up long-term recovery. Only by working together can we ensure a safer future for the affected communities and our environment,” said Dr. Roque Soria, President of the Ecuadorian Red Cross.The IFRC emergency appeal will allow the Ecuadorian Red Cross to expand its response to both crises, with the aim of assisting over 175,000 people during the next 12 months. The operation will focus on providing clean drinking water and offering medical care, including mental health support. Red Cross volunteers will also provide shelter assistance for those whose homes have been damaged, essential hygiene and household items and cash transfers for the most affected families. "The country is facing a public health emergency. Toxic exposure, water contamination, disease proliferation and food insecurity caused by the floods and the oil spill are threatening entire communities, and if we do not act now, the long-term impacts will be devastating. We need urgent, coordinated action to protect people’s health, secure safe water, and prevent further harm," said Loyce Pace, IFRC Regional Director for the Americas.The Red Cross will focus its response to both disasters in the hardest-hit areas, addressing the needs of displaced families in temporary shelters, particularly single-parent households with young children, older adults, and people with disabilities. The Red Cross efforts will also support rural and riverine communities, including indigenous populations facing environmental risks and loss of traditional livelihoods.For more information and to set up an interview, please contact: [email protected] Panama - Susana Arroyo Barrantes +50769993199In Geneva – Tommaso Della Longa +41797084367 Hannah Copeland +41762369109

Read more
|
Article

Central American Red Cross Societies join forces to bring clean water to communities hard hit by climate-related disasters

Central America is a region where access to water is increasingly challenging: in 2023, Panama faced its longest drought in recent history; the dry corridor in Guatemala suffers from persistent water shortages; and weather-related disasters, such as hurricanes, often cause flooding that disrupts water services.In 2020, hurricanes Eta and Iota left more than seven and a half million people in need of humanitarian assistance and our global network was forced to provide assistance in seven countries simultaneously.In all of them, access to clean water, safe and dignified sanitation and information on good hygiene practices was essential.The scale of the storms’ impacts was such that our global network activated its international support mechanisms. The German Red Cross, for example, mobilised its emergency unit specialising in the provision of safe water to augment the response capacity of the Honduran Red Cross.Meanwhile, local Honduran teams have also played their part in expanding their services, going so far as to rehabilitate water treatment plants that had been in use since Hurricane Mitch 22 years ago.Recognising the power of coordinated action and the high likelihood of a recurrence of major disasters like Eta and Iota, the Costa Rican, Guatemalan, Honduran, Panamanian and Salvadoran Red Cross and the IFRC decided to create a centre that would allow them to multiply their capacity to provide water, sanitation and hygiene services (often referred to as “WASH” for short) on a regional level.Welcome to the ‘Wash Hub’Thus was born the “WASH Hub,” a centre of knowledge and equipment for programme management and response to emergencies, disasters and crises. The hub was created as part of the Guatemala Declaration for the Strengthening and Cooperation in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene.Signed in April 2023, the Declaration aims to identify and use the human resources, equipment, methodologies and knowledge that Central American countries have to offer each other."The initiative is about uniting: uniting the efforts of volunteers and team members so that when an adverse event or disaster occurs, we can join forces as National Societies and support a neighbouring country that needs assistance in the area of water, sanitation and hygiene,"says Danny Escoto Lagos, National WASH Focal Point for the Honduran Red Cross.The WASH Hub's work is based on five strategic pillars: capacity building, equipment and maintenance, planning and advocacy, activation and deployment, and sustainability.The logistical teams are divided among the National Red Cross Societies that make up the WASH HUB, with the Honduran Red Cross being one of the first to mobilise equipment thanks to its existing logistical capacity already in place. With its current stock of resources, this hub has the capacity to produce 114 cubic metres of safe water per hour. This would allow it to serve around 182,400 people per day."With the impact of Eta and Iota here in Central America, it was recognised that National Societies in this region have the talent and capacity to address WASH needs in any neighbouring country,"adds Lagos, the Honduran Red Cross WASH focal point.Ensuring a rapid, regional responseBut Eta and Iota also helped to recognise that staffing levels were inadequate and needed to be much more professional. So from December 2023 to the present, the Hub has supported several technical training initiatives, including basic workshops, field schools and high-level training.To date, nearly 200 people from the region have participated in WASH Hub Central America trainings, including participants from the National Societies of Colombia, Ecuador and Argentina.“The WASH Hub will allow for more timely and rapid mobilisation to a nearby country in Central America, or eventually in South America, to deploy a WASH team,” adds the Honduran Red Cross’s Lagos.In its first three years, the WASH Hub will focus on professionalising staff and equipping WASH emergency response units, with technical and financial support from the German Red Cross and within the framework of the Programmatic Partnership between the IFRC and the European Union.The power of the WASH Hub is not only that we will be able to reach more people, but that we will also strengthen our network, a movement of people with diverse experiences and knowledge, who when brought together can respond to the needs of people affected by disasters, when they need it, and where they need it.

Read more
|
Document

IFRC Plan and Budget 2025-2026

The IFRC Plan and Budget defines the IFRC Secretariat’s strategic framework, which guides decision-making, prioritization, and resource allocation for the biennium 2025-2026. It specifies approaches to achieving measurable results, as well as the capacities and resources required to deliver those results. The document is an evolutionary continuation of the 2021-2025 Plan and Budget and is aligned with the IFRC network’sStrategy 2030. Given the rapidly evolving humanitarian context and needs, priorities in this document have been updated to ensure that the IFRC supports its membership to be fit for new and emerging challenges. The Plan and Budget 2025-2026 is based on the Federation-wide results-matrix and complements both the IFRCGlobal PlansandIFRC network country planswhich provide a more detailed overview of annual planning processes across the IFRC network.

Read more
|
Article

IFRC president Kate Forbes in Rafah: ‘The struggle is no longer just about survival—it is about holding on to humanity’

By Kate Forbes, President of IFRCThe road to Rafah stretches through history, through heartbreak, and through the resilience of those who live at its edges. This was my second visit to Rafah—a key border-crossing point between Egypt and Gaza—since I became President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).My first visit was in February last year, when the crisis had already reached unbearable levels. I had hoped to find a different situation upon my return. But when we arrived, the reality was painfully familiar.During my first visit, the first thing I noticed was the line of trucks—packed with supplies that the people of Gaza desperately needed but could only receive in painstaking trickles.This time, a year later, there were fewer trucks backed up at the border as, during the first days of the ceasefire, the Egyptian Red Crescent had managed to get more aid into Gaza.The aid was still far too little to meet the enormous needs but it allowed the Palestine Red Crescent to deliver critical supplies and services. Sadly, on 2 March, the border crossing was once again closed to aid deliveries.Quiet determination, eroding hopeThe second thing I have witnessed at the Rafah border crossing is the quiet determination of the Egyptian Red Crescent staff and volunteers, working tirelessly to sort, coordinate, and push as much aid forward as possible.Their work is invisible to many, but without them, the humanitarian pipeline would collapse. They are the silent hands trying to stitch together the pieces of broken lives.Twelve months ago, the humanitarian situation in Gaza was already dire. It was a place of limited movement, of blockades, of recurring violence that flared and receded, leaving deeper scars each time. But there was still a semblance of hope—a belief that things could change.That belief has eroded. Today, the people in Gaza are trapped—not only by physical borders but by political and geopolitical constraints. The recent escalation of the conflict has not only reshaped the landscape of destruction but has fundamentally altered lives across the region.In South Lebanon, tension has escalated, turning daily life into a precarious existence where the next escalation could come at any moment.In Egypt, the border town of Rafah has become an unwilling witness to one of the most protracted humanitarian blockades of our time. Moreover, Egypt has become a safe harbor for those fleeing conflict, violence, and other humanitarian crises. Today, it is home to hundreds of thousands of people forced to flee their homes in search of safety and dignity—Palestinians from Gaza, Sudanese escaping a devastating armed conflict, and Syrians displaced by over a decade of conflict.For the people of Gaza, the struggle is no longer just about survival—it is about holding on to their humanity in a world that often seems to have forgotten them.What has changed in 12 months? The scale of suffering has grown. Hopes for peace have faded even further. Humanitarian access has become even more difficult.Serving humanity against all oddsWhat has not changed is the resilience of our Red Cross and Red Crescent teams.In the face of these multiple, overlapping humanitarian crises, our volunteers and staff continue, against all odds, to serve and to stand at the gates of crisis, refusing to turn their backs on those in need. They continue to demonstrate extraordinary courage, professionalism, and humanity.In South Lebanon, the Lebanese Red Cross staff continues to respond to the mounting needs of communities affected by rising tensions, providing emergency medical services, and support to those displaced.In the Occupied Palestinian Territorties (OPT), our Palestine Red Crescent teams continue to work under unimaginable conditions, providing life-saving care and support to communities shattered by violence and loss.On the other side of the border, the Egyptian Red Crescent plays a vital role in sustaining the humanitarian response. The National Society's dedicated teams coordinate the flow of aid, support displaced people, and ensure that hope continues to cross into Gaza even when the borders are closed.But our National Societies have not stood alone. The IFRC network has always been by their side. Since the outset of the escalation of hostilities, the IFRC has provided emergency funding and medical supplies, deployed technical expertise, coordinated logistics and ensured that humanitarian diplomacy amplifies the needs of those in vulnerable situations.Today, we face a challenge not only of responding to immediate needs, but of sustaining our support over time while ensuring safety of our teams in Gaza. Humanitarian fatigue is real. Resources are stretched. The crises are multiplying. Yet the needs are growing by the day.As I return from these travels, I keep thinking of the words of an Egyptian Red Crescent staff member:“We don’t have an exit strategy. We are from these communities, and we stand with the people of our communities for as long as they need us.”This is the essence and spirit of our National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies—something I witness in all my visits, something that makes our IFRC network so unique and so deeply human.

Read more
|
Emergency

Chad: Floods

Weeks of severe rains in Chad have hit all 23 provinces leaving at least 340 people dead and 1.5 million in urgent need of food, healthcare, shelter, protection and water sanitation and hygiene services. Forecasts predict continued heavy rains and flooding across much of West and Central Africa in September, with a high concentration of rainfall in Chad. Contribute to this appeal and make a meaningful difference for the 389,000 people supported by the Red Cross of Chad in this response.

Read more
|
Basic page

Early Warnings for All

Early Warnings for All(EW4All) is the UN's globalinitiative aimed at scaling up early warning and early action. Working together with the UN and partners, our aim is to ensure that everyone on earth is protected by early warning systems by 2027.

Read more
|
Emergency

Africa Region: Mpox Epidemic

A worrying surge in mpox cases and deaths in 2024 is being observed in Africa, with over 17,000 cases and 500 deaths across at least 12 countries in 2024, representing a 160 per cent and 19 per cent increase in cases and deaths, respectively, in comparison to the same period of 2023. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is the epicenter of this epidemic with 92 per cent of the total cases in the Africa region. Cases have now been reported in all 26 provinces of the DRC. Cross-border transmission from the eastern provinces of North and South Kivu to non-endemic countries is on the rise, especially into Burundi, but also into Rwanda and Uganda as well as Kenya. Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies across the continent are liaising with their respective Ministries to support their preparedness and response plans. Please donate now and join us in making a meaningful difference for the 30 million people supported by the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in this response.

Read more
|
Emergency

Mauritania: Population Movement

The internal conflict in Mali intensified throughout 2024, increasing displacement of civilians to Mauritania. As of 30 September this year, 262,000 refugees crossed the border to Mauritania, and approximately 12,400 Mauritanian civilians returned from Mali. Services in camps are already limited due to overcrowding and lack of humanitarian services, and those living outside camps have extremely limited access to basic services, such as shelter, water, sanitation, food, healthcare, protection and education. Your donation will help the IFRC make a meaningful difference for the 61,760 people supported by the Mauritanian Red Crescent in this response.

Read more
|
Emergency

Mali: Complex Emergency

Mali faces a severe humanitarian crisis as unprecedented flooding and ongoing armed conflict displace thousands, destroy homes, and devastate the agricultural economy. As the country grapples with this complex emergency, millions are left without basic necessities such as food and safe drinking water. Your donation helps us in making a meaningful difference for the 200,000 people supported by the Mali Red Cross in this response.

Read more
|
Article

Powerful earthquake rocks central Myanmar: Red Cross responds

A powerful earthquake, measuring 7.7 magnitude on the Richter Scale, hit central Myanmar at 1:10 pm local time on 28 March, causing widespread damage to homes, collapsing buildings and infrastructure. The epicenter of the quake was about 17 kilometers from Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city.Emergency response teams from the Myanmar Red Cross were immediately deployed to provide urgent care for people injured or looking for missing loved ones. Teams continue to assess the impact on people caught up in the quake.A strong 6.4 magnitude aftershock, just 12 minutes later, intensified the devastation, further damaging structures in Mandalay and Sagaing, complicating rescue efforts, and raising fears of more casualties.Full extent of damage unclearThe full extent of the destruction and official casualty figures remain unclear, however significant damage to key infrascruture has been confirmed:• The Sagaing automobile bridge that serves as the main connector to Mandalay has collapsed, further complicating emergency response.• Mandalay Airport is reported to have been affected, but the extent of damage is not yet clear.• Mandalay University and the Mandalay palace ancient wall have collapsed.• The Myanmar Red Cross Society Nay Pyi Taw headquarters building and the Mandalay Emergency Operations Centre have been damaged.• Tele-communications have been cut off in Mandalay, Sagaing and Southern Shan State causing the blockage of internet and unstable phone connectivity.Watch this video update from Marie Manrique, acting IFRC Head of Delegation in Myanmar:To scale up support, the IFRC launched an Emergency Appeal for 100 million CHF to assist 100,000 people (20,000 households) with life-saving relief and early recovery support over the next 24 months. Two million CHF were released through the IFRC’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund (IFRC-DREF) to support the operation immediately.The earthquake’s impact extended beyond Myanmar’s borders.In Bangkok, Thailand—nearly 800 kilometers away—the tremors triggered mass evacuations of high-rise buildings. The aftershock contributed to further instability, and a partially constructed skyscraper in the Chatuchak district collapsed, though the number of workers inside remains unknown.Metro and light rail services were temporarily suspended as a safety precaution. The tremors were also felt across several countries, leading to evacuations and widespread panic.The Thai Prime Minister declared a state of emergency in Bangkok, urging residents to evacuate tall buildings due to the risk of aftershocks. Authorities are assessing infrastructure safety, and flight operations at Suvarnabhumi Airport are expected to face delays in the coming days.

Read more