A place to transform lives: Inside the Egyptian Red Crescent’s Zeinhom Community Centre

'It brings me peace of mind': Amid drought in southern Zambia, Red Cross support provided a 20-litre lifeline of hygiene and hope

The Cuban Red Cross brings water, healthcare, and support to communities affected by Hurricane Melissa

Sounds like home: One year after the earthquake, rebuilding lives and livelihoods

The impact of a global treaty on the protection of persons in disasters: Case studies from around the world

This document analyzes the potential impact of the Global Treaty on the Protection of Persons in the Event of Disasters (PPED) through four case studies from Belize, Fiji, Lebanon and Madagascar. The treaty aims to ensure that international assistance reaches communities faster and more effectively when major disasters occur. Download the complete case studies for each country using the toolkit links below.

Advocacy hub

Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies areauxiliaries to the public authorities in the humanitarian field. Theyhave a special responsibility to support their authorities to develop policies that protect vulnerable people, particularlyfrom disasters and crises. The IFRC serves as their representative in global and regional policy fora, working closely with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

'Serving with the heart': International Volunteer Year 2026 honours the dedication and bravery of volunteers around the world, saving lives and making an impact in their communities

One year after Myanmar earthquake, local responders drive recovery as international support remains critical

Yangon/Kuala Lumpur/Geneva, 27 March 2026–One year after a devastating earthquake struck central Myanmar, communities and local responders continue to show extraordinary strength as they rebuild amid overlapping crises. Even as thousands of families work to recover from the destruction of homes, schools, and health facilities, ongoing conflict, economic challenges, flooding, and extreme heat have compounded hardship for millions across the country.In the face of these challenges, IFRC support has been critical in helping the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) and its network of thousands of trained volunteers to remain a lifeline for communities, often reaching the most vulnerable families in distant and hard to access areas. Support by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and 32 National Societies worldwide, as well as other partners and donors, has brought vital assistance to more than 213,652 people across 31 townships.Local volunteers at the heart of a community-driven recoveryFrom the earliest hours of the disaster, MRCS staff and volunteers mobilised to provide first aid, health care, food and safe water, shelter items, and essential household supplies – often travelling from all corners of the country to assist those in need.“One year after the March 2025 earthquake, communities in Myanmar continue to show remarkable strength and dignity,”said Nadia Khoury, Head of Delegation, IFRC Myanmar.“I have just travelled to activity sites in 16 different villages and wards in several of the earthquake-affected areas and was impressed to see how the Myanmar Red Cross has worked with community committees, with village leaders, and through its volunteers to really address the biggest needs of the communities in an inclusive, participatory, and dignified manner,” she added.Flexible assistance: restoring choice, dignity, and faster recoveryA cornerstone of the response has been multipurpose assistance, which has allowed families to choose what matters most as they start to rebuild their lives. After receiving emergency shelter, health support, and essential items, many used grants to repair homes, buy food, replace lost belongings, or pay medical fees.Through MRCS’s strong community networks, multipurpose assistance has been delivered effectively, including in hard-to-access locations. While working in these locations can be challenging and requires careful management, MRCS has put strong systems in place to ensure funds are used safely and effectively. Over the past year, the IFRC also facilitated using new digital tools to improve transparency, strengthen community feedback, and ensure assistance reaches those most in need, when they need it.Community-led shelters enabling safer, dignified livingIn parallel, the Myanmar Red Cross has enabled hundreds of families to build safe, locally appropriate homes through a community-led shelter approach, with technical assistance and guidance from MRCS and IFRC. Using grants, families select from preferred designs that meet safety standards and incorporate Build Back Safer techniques, including rainwater harvesting, ventilation, sanitation facilities, and solar power. These shelters are built with local materials and enhanced to withstand future hazards such as earthquakes, flooding, and cyclones.Massive needs remain as recovery continuesDespite significant progress, thousands of families still require support to rebuild livelihoods, homes, and essential services. Reconstructing water and sanitation systems, restoring access to health care, and reestablishing sustainable income opportunities will require time and continued investment.“There's still so much to be done this year and in 2027. We've had a remarkable response from the international community. The MRCS has delivered with professionalism, with expertise in a timely manner and we look forward to working together to keep assisting those affected by the earthquake and other vulnerable people here in Myanmar,” said Jonathan Brass,Operations Manager, IFRC Myanmar Delegation.IFRC calls for sustained supportTheIFRC Emergency Appeal for Myanmar remains only 29.4% funded, limiting the ability to scale up recovery activities that communities urgently need. Additional contributions are essential to ensure families can continue rebuilding with dignity and hope.“Recovery is far from over. Now we look forward to the recovery phase through livelihood, additional integrated shelter and sanitation and embedding sustainability and disaster preparedness in our community work,” added Nadia Khoury.Note to editors:Visuals:PhotosandB-roll are available. Story:One year after the earthquake, rebuilding lives and livelihoodsFor more information or to request an interview, please contact:[email protected] Kuala Lumpur:Afrhill Rances, +60 19 271 3641In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367

Local, everywhere: Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers keep humanity strong

From mountain rescues in Iran to flood response in Yemen, from school health clubs in Lebanon to refugee camps in Jordan, volunteers respond to crises and moments of need within the very communities they call home.They are neighbours, students, parents, and friends; people who choose to act when it matters most.On International Volunteer Day, we celebrate their stories under the theme "Local, everywhere"; stories of courage, kindness, and hope that remind us that humanity knows no borders.Iran: A language of humanityHigh in the mountains of Iran, rescuer Marzieh Saki found herself in a situation where people’s lives were at risk.During a harsh winter, her team was warning hikers of avalanche risks when she saw a group of young men who didn’t respond to her calls.“I warned them, but they didn’t respond. Then, I noticed that they were using sign language,” says Marzieh. “That’s when I realized they were deaf and probably couldn’t hear my warnings.”She rushed toward them, using gestures and expressions to show them the danger.They understood and turned back, just hours before avalanches struck the same area.“That night, I couldn’t stop thinking. If I hadn’t made them understand, they might not have survived. Since then, I’ve been learning sign language and started the Deaf Volunteers Group to train rescuers on how to reach and help deaf people during emergencies.”Her quick thinking saved lives and sparked a movement for inclusion within the Iranian Red Crescent.Jordan: From a journey of displacement to a leadership role in a new communityTwin brothers Mahmoud and Ezz Al-Din Al-Hassan fled war-torn Daraa, Syria, to Jordan in 2012 with a dream to make a difference despite the challenges of displacement due to the conflict in their country.In 2017, they began volunteering with the Jordan Red Crescent, helping organize relief distributions, health campaigns, and Ramadan Iftars, and supporting children through the Orphan Sponsorship Program.Through these experiences, the brothers found belonging and purpose.They later launched their own initiative, “Plant a Smile,” to bring hope and creativity to children who faced hardship.“When you find someone who believes in you and supports you, you can start from zero and create an unforgettable impact,” they say.From refugees to community leaders, their journey shows how volunteer engagement can transform pain into purpose.Lebanon: A full circle of humanitarian inspirationIn the city of Zahlé, Lebanon, a young boy once spent his afternoons in the local park, taking part in playful weekend activities organized by the Lebanese Red Cross Youth Zahle Center.Years later, that boy - Jad Abdel Ahad - returned to the same park, not as a participant, but as a volunteer. The activities he used to participate in shaped his life far more deeply than he ever imagined. Over time, Jad’s dedication carried him from volunteer to Head of the Youth Center, where he began leading the same activities that once inspired him.As he grew in his role, Jad worked not only to animate the park with youth-led engagement but also to secure funding and ensure its continuity as a safe, vibrant community space.“Those moments shaped who I am today; they taught me about teamwork, empathy, and community spirit. When I was old enough, joining the Red Cross felt like a natural step. As Head of Youth Center now, it feels incredible to organize activities for children in the same park where I once played. I’ve seen firsthand how much these moments can inspire young people, just as they inspired me.”What began as childhood memories evolved into a sustained commitment to service, a story of coming full circle.Libya: Restoring dignity at seaIn Zuwara, Libya, one of the most memorable moments for volunteers unfolded during a late-night rescue operation for refugees who had just survived a dangerous sea crossing. Many arrived exhausted, dehydrated, and terrified after their ordeal.Among them was a young mother, who clutched her baby tightly, too frightened at first to let anyone approach him. Volunteers recall how Hidayah Ahmed Saki stepped forward with calm reassurance, offering water and gentle words until the mother slowly allowed her child to be examined.As soon as she saw her baby receive care, she began to relax and even helped comfort other women nearby.Colleagues say moments like these reflect Hidayah’s strength: her ability to meet people in distress with empathy, patience, and a quiet presence that reassures even in the most chaotic situations.Hidayah herself describes the heart of her work this way:“That moment reminded me that humanitarian work is not only about providing medical aid, but also about restoring trust and dignity. Even small gestures, like offering water or listening, can make a life-changing difference.” Her story is a reminder that in emergencies, compassion is as essential as any medical skill, and that dignity can be restored through the simplest acts of humanity.Palestine: Inclusion that transforms disabilityIn the West Bank, Mohammad Daoud once felt isolated and without direction. A wheelchair user who had faced both physical and emotional challenges, he retreated into silence after witnessing traumatic scenes during a raid on his town.When Palestine Red Crescent volunteers learned about his situation, they began visiting him regularly, offering psychological support and gentle encouragement until he slowly found his voice again. As he continued to improve, Mohammad asked to join their volunteer team.Nearly three years later, he has become a first responder, an active participant in youth activities, and a young man who continues to learn, read, write, and grow with determination.Mohammad describes how the Red Crescent transformed his life:“The Red Crescent opened doors I never imagined I could enter. My disability was never a barrier to learning and growing. Thanks to the opportunities they gave me, I became a first responder and take part in every activity. If I was able to do it, others can too.”He now uses his experience to inspire others, reminding volunteers and community members alike that determination can break any barrier and that every act of service builds a stronger, more inclusive world.Saudi Arabia: Finding joy amid painFor Zainab Mustafa Al-Abdullah of the Saudi Red Crescent Authority, volunteering began with a visit to bring joy to children with cancer in Al-Ahsa.“It was one of the most beautiful initiatives I’ve taken part in,” she says. “The joy and hope on the children’s faces made me realize that life is still full of goodness.”While handing out small gifts, she met a young girl named Taraf whose words changed her outlook.“She looked at me, smiled, and said, ‘I love you. I'm grateful I’m still alive so that I can receive gifts and play with you every day.’“Those words from a nine-year-old taught me that life is beautiful despite its hardships,” says Zainab. “They made me appreciate health, gratitude, and the importance of staying hopeful.”Her story shows how acts of kindness can heal both giver and receiver.Yemen: Strength in the heartIn Hadramout, Abdullah Abubakr Habshi Assagaf joined the Yemen Red Crescent during a flood emergency. Among the people he assisted was an elderly man who struggled to walk yet worked tirelessly to support his family.“That scene made me realize the true meaning of volunteering — it is not merely a task we perform, but a feeling of responsibility and a desire to bring happiness to others,” says Abdullah.“Every time I take part in humanitarian work, I learn that true strength does not come from the body, but from the heart that never gets tired of giving.”His words echo the spirit of countless volunteers who keep giving, no matter the hardship.One humanity. Local, everywhere.Across the Middle East and North Africa, these stories reveal what "Local, everywhere" truly means.Volunteers are not waiting for change to arrive; they are the change.They remind us that humanity begins at home and radiates outward.Volunteers are the heartbeat of humanity, local in action and global in spirit.Find out more about our "Local, everywhere" campaignMore stories from the Middle East and North Africa:Healing far from home: The Egyptian Red Crescent’s lifeline for Gaza’s evacueesFighting fire with humanity: Syrian Arab Red Crescent responds as wildfires ravage villages

Statement: IFRC appalled by the killing of one Iranian Red Crescent colleague

Tehran/Beirut/Geneva, 15 March 2026: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is appalled by the death of Hamidreza Jahanbakhsh, a staff member of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) from Isfahan Province, who was killed during a search and rescue operation in Tiran-o-Korun, Isfahan Province, on 8 March.Hamidreza Jahanbakhsh lost his life while carrying out his humanitarian duty to assist people affected by the ongoing hostilities. The IFRC expresses its sincere condolences to his family, loved ones, and all IRCS colleagues. Since the outbreak of the conflict, several other IRCS staff and volunteers have also sustained injuries while carrying out their duties.The Red Crescent emblem is asymbol of protection, humanity, neutrality, and hope. Yet too often, our volunteers and staff are killed while performing life-saving work. This is unacceptable.We stand in solidarity with the Iranian Red Crescent Society and all humanitarian workers providing life-saving assistance in difficult and often dangerous conditions.The safety and protection of humanitarian personnel, as well as respect forthe Red Crescent emblem, are essential to ensure the continued delivery of impartial, life-saving assistance to people in need.Once again, our network is mourning the loss of a colleague. Any attack on humanitarians is unacceptable and must be condemned. We will never stop asking for the protection of humanitarian teams: this is a moral and legal obligation.Since the start of the year, seven members of the IFRC network have passed away while on duty.For more information: [email protected] In Beirut:Mey Al Sayegh, +961 761 744 68   In Geneva:Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367

Statement: IFRC appalled by the killing of a Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer

Geneva, 9March 2026 - The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) isappalledby the killing of a Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer while on duty on 5March 2026.Um Salama Mohammed Abdullah wasavolunteer from South Kordofan State Branch. She was on duty in the maternity ward in Al-Dilling hospital when the health facility was reportedly attacked. She was 24 years old. The IFRC sends its deepest condolences to herfamily, friends and all our Sudanese Red Crescent colleagues providing life-savingassistanceeven during thisdifficult time.TheRedCross and Red Crescent emblems aresymbolsof protection, humanity, neutrality,and hope. Yet too often,our volunteersand staffarekilledwhile performing life-saving work. The loss of Um Salama Mohammed Abdullahis a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by those who dedicate their lives to helping others.Any attack on humanitarian personnel weakens entire communities and compromises our ability to help the people who need it most.  The IFRC calls fortheprotectionof civilians, humanitarianworkers,and medical personnel: it is a legal and moral obligation. Ournetworkismourning,but this is not enough. The killing must end now. Humanitarians must be protected.The Sudanese Red Crescent has lost 22 colleagues on duty since the beginning of the conflict (April 2023).Since the start of the year, globally, 5 members of the IFRC networkhave passed awaywhile on duty. For more information: [email protected]   In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367Lea Salwan, +41 79 245 70 49In Sudan: Anette Andresen, +249 11 01201 93, WhatsApp + 47 415 19 115

Multilateral donors and international financial institutions

The IFRC is committed to increasing and diversifying our overall income for the benefit of our National Societies. In the face of growing humanitarian and development needs, building relationships and securing funding opportunities with multilateral donors and international financial institutions (IFIs)is essential.

World Disasters Report 2026

The World Disasters Report 2026 warns harmful information as ade facto humanitarian crisis - undermining access to aid, eroding trust, destabilizing social cohesion and increasing risks for staff, volunteers and communities. No longer a peripheral communications issue, harmful information is an operational and strategic challenge affecting acceptance, safety and principled humanitarian action.As the IFRC’s flagship publication, the Report brings together insights from nearly 100 contributors, 60 organizations including over 30 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Grounded in experiences from across regions and community insights, it examines how harmful information, including misinformation, disinformation and dehumanizing narratives, impacts responses to disasters, public health emergencies, migration and conflict.Across eight chapters, the Report shows why understanding harms of harmful information is critical — revealing its wide-ranging impacts and how it disrupts preparedness, response and recovery. It provides practical recommendations to strengthen information resilience, safeguard humanitarian principles and rebuild trust.In an era where information can determine access, safety and dignity, the World Disasters Report 2026 offers both the evidence and a roadmap for action.Click here to watch the World Disasters Report 2026 global launch event Russian | русский Доклад «Всемирные катастрофы 2026» говорит о том, что фактический гуманитарный кризис, подрывающий доступ к помощи, разрушающий доверие, дестабилизирующий сплоченность общества и повышающий риски для персонала, волонтеров и местных сообществ. Вредоносная информация перестала быть второстепенной проблемой общения и стала оперативной и стратегической проблемой, влияющей на принятие, безопасность и принципиальные гуманитарные действия.В качестве флагманского издания МФКК (Международной федерации обществ Красного Креста и Красного Полумесяца) доклад объединяет мнения почти 100 авторов, 60 организаций, включая более 30 национальных обществ Красного Креста и Красного Полумесяца. Основанный на опыте различных регионов и мнении местных сообществ, доклад исследует, как вредоносная информация, включая дезинформацию, ложные сведения и обесчеловечивание, влияет на реагирование на стихийные бедствия, чрезвычайные ситуации в области общественного здравоохранения, миграцию и конфликты.В восьми главах доклада показано, почему понимание вреда, причиняемого вредоносной информацией, имеет решающее значение — раскрывая ее широкомасштабные последствия и то, как она нарушает готовность, реагирование и восстановление. В нем содержатся практические рекомендации по укреплению информационной устойчивости, защите гуманитарных принципов и восстановлению доверия.В эпоху, когда информация может определять доступ, безопасность и достоинство, Всемирный доклад о стихийных бедствиях 2026 года предлагает как фактические данные, так и дорожную карту действий.Нажмите здесь, чтобы скачать сводный Доклад о Мировых Катастрофах за 2026 год.Чтобы получить уведомление когда полная версия Всемирного доклада о стихийных бедствиях за 2026 год на русском языке будет доступна, пожалуйста, перейдите по этой ссылке. Chinese | 中文Coming Soon.

Through rubble and loss, Iranian Red Crescent teams continue saving lives amid escalating hostilities

This article is based on the emergency response efforts as of 2 April 2026.As hostilities continue to escalate across Iran, civilians are bearing the brunt of the violence, with attacks reported across 30 out of 31 provinces.In less than a month, more than 2,000 people have been killed, including women and children, and at least 21,000 injured. Many families have been forced to flee their homes, with an estimated 3 per cent of Iran’s population of around 92 million now internally displaced.Homes, neighbourhoods and essential services have been damaged, placing growing pressure on hospitals, shelters, and basic infrastructure.At the forefront of the response, the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) has mobilized its nationwide network of volunteers and emergency teams to support affected communities, providing life-saving assistance in some of the hardest-hit areas.Rescue amid the destructionIn the city of Salmas, in West Azerbaijan province, Iranian Red Crescent Society rescuers worked alongside the Fire Department after reports that someone was trapped beneath rubble following an attack.Specialized search and rescue teams carefully worked through the debris, eventually locating the person alive. The survivor was safely extracted and transferred for medical treatment.It is one of thousands of rescues carried out by IRCS teams since the escalation began, including children pulled from collapsed buildings and families reached in the immediate aftermath of attacks.A nationwide humanitarian responseFrom the earliest moments of the escalation, the Iranian Red Crescent Society mobilized at scale.Today, it remains the primary humanitarian actor in the country, with 529 branches activated across all 31 provinces and operations reaching 197 cities. Around 100,000 responders, including volunteers, medical teams and rescue personnel, are working around the clock to support affected communities.Search and rescue teams, ambulances, clinics, pharmacies and logistics units are all engaged in delivering life-saving assistance. So far, more than 3,500 people have been rescued from affected areas.At the same time, the response extends beyond immediate physical needs. Through a nationwide hotline, the Iranian Red Crescent has provided psychological and social support to people in distress, receiving more than 100,000 calls from across the country.In West Azerbaijan province, where families displaced by the hostilities have been relocated to emergency shelters, psychosocial support teams are present on site, with a particular focus on supporting children and families as they cope with trauma, fear and loss.Pressure, danger and lossDespite the scale of the response, the operating environment remains extremely challenging.Eighteen IRCS centres have been struck, and nearly 100 ambulances have been damaged or destroyed — critical assets in a context where they often represent the only chance of survival for those injured.Relief workers themselves have not been spared. Three IRCS members have been killed while carrying out their humanitarian duties, includingSomayeh Mir Abu Es’haq, who lost her life during an attack while on duty in Isfahan Province, andHamidreza Jahanbakhsh, who was killed earlier during a search and rescue operation,and Alireza Sohbatloo, who was killed in an attack while providing services at a Red Crescent clinic in Zanjan. As of 1 April 2026, at least 17 other colleagues have been injured while in the line of duty since the escalation began.For many responders, these challenges are not only operational, but deeply personal.In Qom, an IRCS first responder was confronted with the devastating reality of recovering his aunt and her husband from beneath the rubble, alongside a young child.Such moments reflect a broader truth. Many responders are not only witnessing tragedy, they are living it.It is a stark reminder of the burden carried by humanitarian workers, continuing to save lives under immense pressure, even while grieving their own loved ones.Continuing despite the challengesDespite the immense challenges, support continues to come from across the country, both through organized response efforts and individual acts of solidarity.A young barber, Alireza Kazemi, also known as Kenzo, has been volunteering his services to Iranian Red Crescent Society rescuers, offering haircuts to help lift morale during long and demanding shifts.“I wanted them and their families to feel a bit better despite these conditions. I worked from 1:45 PM yesterday until 5:00 AM this morning to provide this service, and we will continue working to reach other areas,” he said.“I was outside Iran, but when the escalation began, I felt the need to come back and provide my services here. I want to help my people in any way I can.”Scaling up support for the responseThe IFRC and its network is supporting the Iranian Red Crescent Society by scaling up critical resources to sustain the response.An initial allocation of 1.5 million Swiss francs from the IFRC’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) has enabled the rapid procurement of essential medical supplies and protective equipment for frontline responders.In addition, a 40 million Swiss franc Emergency Appeal has been launched to support up to 5 million people affected by the crisis. Through this appeal, the IFRC is providing operational support and facilitating international procurement and delivery of critical relief items.You can support the Iranian Red Crescent Society’s response and help reach more people in need by contributing to the IFRC Emergency Appealhere.

The IFRC warns of the impact of the conflict in the Middle East: Moving humanitarian goods is becoming more expensive and slower

Geneva,23March 2026– The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) warns that one of the consequences of the conflict in the Middle East is its impact on the humanitarian supply chain.While the IFRC global supply chain hub in Dubairemainsoperational, disruptions to global transport have led to significant price increases and forced the organization to use longer overland routes.The direct impact is that moving goods is becoming more expensive and is taking more time. At a time when humanitarian budgets are shrinking, this will directly affect the most vulnerable communities around the world.Costs are changing daily, but the following examples illustrate current trends:Sea freight:approximately +70%, with spikes of up to 300% on specific routesCause:Schedule disruptions, rerouting, and congestion. Reduced UAE sailings are also forcing road repositioning to ports such as Jeddah (approximately $5,000 per container).Land transport (international/cross-border):+20% to +30%Cause:A general increase in cross-border trucking costs across GCC corridors, driven primarily by border delays, driver shortages, and tightening capacity, with fuel price volatility as a contributing factor.Air freight:approximately +50% to 70% (depending on the route)Cause:Modal shift from sea to air, limited capacity, and volatile fuel surcharges.IFRCsupply chain expertsare availablefor interviews.For more information or to set up an interview, please contact:[email protected] Geneva:Tommaso Della Longa,+41 79 708 4367