Migration

Federico Rios Escobar: Award-winning photojournalist talks about his trek with migrants through Central America’s perilous Darién Gap

Federico Rios Escobar has spent more than a decade documenting the epic struggles of migrants in South and Central America. The hardships they face in the roadless jungle known as the Darien Gap go beyond anything he’s seen before. “There’s only one way to cross and it’s on foot,” he says. “There's the mud, rain, humidity, the hot sun, rivers that suddenly grow, landslides — and many migrants have died of these things — but many are also victims of robberies, assaults, extortion, and sexual assaults.” For migrants, he says, the Red Cross volunteers there offer more than first-aid, they offer a sense of hope, safety and humanity to people in desperate conditions. Tune in to find out where you can see his award-winning, heart-breaking and inspiring photographs.

04/09/2024 |

Echoes from the jungle: Unseen human stories from the Darién Gap

An unseen crisis is unfolding in the Darién jungle. Beneath the dense foliage of this tropical forest that links Colombia and Panama, hundreds of thousands of people are on the move – risking their lives in search of safety and opportunity.This journey is one of the most dangerous in the world. Countless risks await those who attempt it. And yet hundreds of thousands of people do it every year. A new exhibit of photographs and stories, produced by the IFRC, with funding from the European Union, tells their story — and the story of the people who provide life-saving support to them.Echoes from the junglefeatures photos taken by photojournalist Federico Rios, who journeyed through Darién in 2022 and 2023 on assignment for the New York Times, as well as photos taken by IFRC and Red Cross staff in the region. Here is a selection of photos from the exhibit and the stories behind them.To leave everything behind and walk into the jungleThe Darién is a remote, roadless area covering both Panamanian and Colombian territory, which is the only possible overland crossing between South and Central America. Spanning more than 60 miles of swamp, dense rainforest, fast-flowing rivers and mountains, the Darién jungle is as remarkable as it is inhospitable.Why cross the Darién jungle?Why would someone choose to attempt such a perilous journey? Economic collapse, political instability, intense violence and conflict, persecution, and limited legal pathways can all contribute to the decision. And often, compounding crises and challenges will force people to move.Dangers in the heart of the jungleThe harsh reality of the Darién jungle unfolds as we witness a woman, burdened with the weight of her small child, navigating through its unforgiving terrain (see photo above). The relentless heat and stifling humidity only add to the exhaustion felt by the women, children and men on the move.Counting every dropCrossing the Darién is not just a matter of hours. It can take days or even weeks depending on the time of the year. Access to food and water becomes increasingly scarce, especially for people travelling with minimal supplies. Unable to rely on water from streams and rivers due to contamination, they must carry their own supplies to sustain themselves on their journey.Facing diverse threatsThe Darién jungle is full of threats, some of which are deadly. Surging river crossings, poisonous snakes, paths marked only by the footsteps of those who were there before, and weather that can turn at any moment.Then there are the human threats – robbery, smuggling, human trafficking, physical and sexual violence – that are sadly all too common. Between 2018 and 2023, 258 people died in the Darién.People crossing the jungle are exposed to insect bites, infections, diarrhoea, dehydration, fractures, or skin injuries with no access to first aid before reaching the closest town. During the most difficult parts of their journey, their only consolation is to trust and support each other.Rainfall and rising riversThe Darién is characterized by numerous rivers, many of which flow through dense rainforest and mountainous terrain. However, they pose significant challenges to people attempting to cross them, especially during periods of heavy and frequent rainfall between May and December. As water levels rise rapidly and the rivers become more powerful, drowning poses a significant risk.At the edge of the jungle, worlds meetWhile many of the people who traverse this jungle are from South America, this journey is also used by people from around the world. In recent years, a growing number of migrants have arrived from far further afield including China, India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Cameroon and Angola. For these people, the existing dangers of the Darién are heightened by cultural and linguistic barriers.Unprecedented numbersThe scale of migration through the Darién in recent decades is unprecedented. In a region with a relatively low population density, the passage of more than 500,000 people from different parts of the world in 2023 has brought additional challenges to local communities: this number is more than seven times the resident population.Because the Darién is a remote and protected area, basic resources and infrastructure such as clean water and waste collection services are scarce, heightening the environmental impact on the region as both local communities and groups of migrants face these challenges on a daily basis.Who are the people crossing the Darién and who are the people there to help?The reasons for travelling through this jungle are as varied as the people themselves – whether travelling alone, with family or with people they meet along the way. Here are some of their stories.Zidane's many talentsColombian by origin, Zidane is a multifaceted individual – a cultural manager, shortfilm producer, Red Bull competitor, freestyler, rapper, hairdresser, and baker. Despitehis vibrant artistic pursuits, he found himself compelled to migrate."We left my country because things were not going well there, there was no money,there was nothing. My [rapper] foundation had completed its cycle and I thought itwas a good idea to leave, but since I didn't have a passport, we decided to travelthrough the Darién jungle."Navil’s passportNavil* was asked what the most precious object he always carried with him was. Heanswered immediately: his passport. Without it he would not have been able to leave India, his country of origin, to attempt to reach the United States.*Name changed on requestKaren's reason for not giving upKaren’s son Dylan is her motivation for everything she does in life, her reason for not giving up during difficult times and especially now, when she has faced moments of danger and pain crossing through the jungle."Crossing the Darién is not easy. I don't recommend it to anyone. The danger there is not the animals, it's facing people who hurt you, who steal from you, who abuse both your body and the little you carry with you.”A symbol of hopeFor the people travelling through the Darién, the Red Cross is a symbol of hope on their difficult journey. In Panama, the IFRC and the Panamanian Red Cross, with support from the European Union, the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) and other partners, have been responding to the needs of migrants crossing the Darién for several years.What’s been provided so far: The Red Cross response in numbersOur support during one of those years, 2023, offers a snapshot of the enormous needs and the very concrete support offered by Red Cross staff and volunteers. In that year, Red Cross provided migrants with more than 29.7 million litres of safe water, over 20,000 basic health care consultations, 2,000 first-aid services, and more than 24,500 maternal and child care services.They also facilitated more than 33,000 international calls so migrants could communicate with their loved ones. Staff and volunteers also provide information, an internet connection to allow contact with family members, and referrals to specialized services.Safe, welcoming and neutral spacesOnce through the jungle, people on the move can access support in camps, where they receive protection services and trusted information so they continue their journey as safely as possible. People can also find assistance at Humanitarian Service Points, run by the Panamanian Red Cross with support from the IFRC, the European Union, and other partners.

17/06/2024 |

World Refugee Day: Europe’s experience with ‘private hosting’ of Ukrainian Refugees offers a new model for supporting people fleeing conflict and violence

After the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine in February 2022, countless people fled the country. Most went to other countries in Europe and now some 7 million people still live abroad.A significant percentage of these refugees were supported by host communities including individuals and families who welcomed them into their homes. This widespread show of solidarity provided an essential lifeline to numerous people from Ukraine.“She [the host] has done a lot for me,” said one of the Ukrainian guests, speaking about the people she is staying with in Hungary. “I found a job with her help... And somehow, we slowly became a family... And we started taking care of each other.”It was also an enriching experience for many of the host families."Sometimes we went shopping together or one bought a thing or two for the other, we shared things," says one woman from Poland who hosted a Ukranian family. “Together we supported and helped each other.”Such solidarity is not unique to the Ukraine conflict. People have welcomed refugees into their homes for as long as there have been wars, famines, and other calamities. But the movement of people from Ukraine that began after the escalation of hostilities in 2022 — and the response of many European countries — marks a significant moment in recent history.Instead of closing their doors to refugees, communities in Europe largely accepted them. The spontaneous expression of solidarity toward them —by private individuals and government authorities — meant that the people coming from Ukraine had additional accommodation options than the common reception facilities as collective centers or camps (as often happens when large amounts of people flee from one country to another).Rather, communities across Europe focused their support on the idea of housing people in private accommodations within host communities.Humanitarian organizations, government agencies, and enterprises that support people in need worked together in unprecedented ways in order to build on this solidarity. They coordinated multiple types of support, both for refugees and the people and communities hosting them.One key example is the Safe Homes Programme. Funded by the European Commission’s Asylum Migration and Integration Fund, the programme was implemented by the IFRCalong with Red Cross National Societies in nine European countries: Belgium, France, Ireland, Hungary, The Netherlands, Luxembourg, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia.Driven by the dedication of individuals, organisations and national authorities, the programme aimed to provide safe homes for people who fled Ukraine and to support their integration into national systems.A new modelWhile this approach is not new and National Societies and other organizations have matched refugees with host families, it has never before been done on this scale. The Safe Homes Programme, therefore, helped with the monumental tasks of sourcing, matching, safeguarding and nurturing relationships between hosts and guests. It also helped the organizations involved to reflect on good practices and lessons learned so that communities, governments and host communities might be better prepared for similar situations in the future.Recently, the programme released a comprehensive report “Safe Homes: Key Lessons From Hosting People Displaced from Ukraine in Private Homes”, which in many ways serves as a blueprint or model for similar mass collaboration around private hosting.“The aim is to grasp the full picture of the hosting situation in these countries, which not only allows for better decision-making in the short term, but also informs strategies for potential future initiatives,” says Denisse Solis, Manager of the Safe Homes Programme, IFRC Europe Regional Office.New lessons and new questionsThis is particularly critical in cases such as this when the potential solutions are as complex as the challenges. For example, the kind of solidarity shown toward Ukrainian refugees is also extended to all people in need of safety,It’s worth noting, however, that private hosting is not new, nor is it exclusive to Europe and Ukrainian refugees.Private hosting has been widely supported by National Societies, local organizations, and individuals in various ways in all regions along crises where population movement has taken place. The Irish Red Cross’s work in helping to pair Syrian refugees with host families is just one example.There are also other complexities within host communities. Often, they too are going through tough times in different ways. At the time of the Ukraine conflict escalation, for example, the world was still grappling with the aftermath of a global pandemic, with economies and supply chains stressed, and money for public services severely stretched.One key question therefore, is to what degree is it fair to rely too much on private hosting without a proper strategy on what will happen next, as this type of crisis usually it do not resolve easily.“The state has relied almost entirely on the solidarity of its citizens,” noted one representative for local authorities Belgium who was quoted in the report. “It’s a problem because there was no prospect of a long-term solution. Host families were stretched to the limit. Then the pressure fell on local authorities, which had to find solutions.”The Safe Homes Programme report centers around 15 key ‘Lessons learned’. Lesson number one: “Hosting schemes must be designed with clear exit strategies, set up from the start, which enable guests to transition from hosting arrangements.”This lesson is backed up by a quote in the report from a Ukrainian case worker for the Irish Red Cross. “At the very beginning, people thought they were going to be here for a short period of time. Everybody was in this temporary mode,” the case worker said. “Most people were sitting on their suitcases waiting for the day to go back home. But now, you can see the changes in people’s way of thinking. They finally started to realise that it is not going to happen anytime soon.”It all starts with a Safe HomeIn each country, Red Cross Societies implemented the Safe Homes programme in different ways, in the “Safe Homes: Case Studies” you will find detailed information of the differentefforts, successful experiences, but also different challenges. [See also one-page, country-specific summaries of the case studies].“One of the biggest challenges has been the lack of housing, and this is particularly frustrating for social workers because they have no influence on this issue,” said one social worker from the Luxembourg Red Cross quoted in the report.“Many guests feel deeply frustrated because they do not want to return to reception facilities, but they do not have access to social housing either.”In short, hosts provide essential support, but it cannot replace public financing and support for housing. Nor can host families be expected to replace the role of social workers and public authorities. In the end, it’s about providing a complex array of support from a variety of angles and partners. But it starts with a safe home.“Everything starts with accommodation,” says one social worker, Slovak Red Cross quoted in the report. “We heard that all the time from the refugees. Unless they know where they are going to stay, they can't focus on something else like enrolling kids to school, find a job, and so on.”

04/06/2024 |

Mohammed Alburai: Born in a refugee camp in Gaza, he became a double refugee when he sought safety for his family in Slovenia. Now he helps other refugees for the Slovenian Red Cross.

Born in the Deir El-Balah refugee camp in Gaza, Mohammed Alburai worked as a volunteer ambulance driver for the Palestine Red Crescent before leaving for Slovenia in 2019. Now a cultural mediator and translator for the Slovenian Red Cross, Mohammed helps migrants and refugees cope with their new life in Slovenia. He helps migrants connect with lost family members, organizes sports and social events, and talks with them about their needs and concerns. “That’s the best part in my job,” he says. “I meet people from different cultures every day — from Cuba, Bangladesh, Mongolia, all over Africa and the Middle East. They know I feel what they are going through and they trust me.” Mohammed also talks about his friends and former colleagues at the Palestinian Red Crescent who have died in the line of duty and he pays tribute to all Red Cross and Red Crescent staff who have been killed while working to save others.

08/05/2024 |

In the hills along the border, Lupita brings water, first-aid and a big dose of humanity

In the city of Nogales, in the northern Mexican state of Sonora, just about everyone knows Rosa Guadalupe Gonzalez Bucio.Health personnel, local authorities, consular representatives, social organizations, local merchants – everyone knows this smart, determined, red-clad woman who drives an all-terrain vehicle through the streets and remote dirt paths in and around Nogales.“Lupita,” as she is affectionately known, is an emergency medical technician, the focal point of the Mexican Red Cross's humanitarian aid for vulnerable migrants on the Mexican side of Nogales, a city that straddles the United States and Mexican border.Every day, Lupita is out there, on her little Red Cross buggy, looking for people who are lost, dehydrated or who have been injured after trying to climb the wall that divides the two countries.For many migrants, Mexico is the last step in the journey that people from all over the world undertake to reach the United States. In 2023 alone, there were more than 2.4 million attempts to cross the border between the two countries, which the United Nations called the world's deadliest land migration route.In 2023, at least 686 migrants lost their lives on this route and almost half of them did so trying to cross arid landscapes such as the Sonoran Desert, the one Lupita drives through every day.Tragic stories on an unforgiving journey“Every day of the year we go out in the racer to look for migrants who need help,” Lupita says. “Although there are even more arid areas, here in Nogales during the summer, the temperatures are extreme. Heat stroke, dehydration and animal bites are common. But in the winter, the desert is also a deadly threat”.It was precisely one freezing night 15 years ago when Lupita experienced a story that marked her forever. A woman walking with her young daughter in the desert fell and was immobilized. The group she was walking with called 911 for help and continued on their way. By the time U.S. and Mexican rescue groups reached her, it was too late. She had died.The girl survived, protected by her mother's embrace. But since there were no shelters in the area intended for this type of case, the girl remained in the custody of the Red Cross until the authorities found her family.Today, in Nogales, there are dozens of centers that each year receive thousands of migrants and asylum seekers from countries in the Americas, Europe and Asia, as well as from Mexico itself.“We have been providing humanitarian aid to vulnerable people in transit for some 20 years and their stories and needs continue to move me as they did on the first day,” says Lupita.“No matter where they come from, most are fleeing a difficult life and face an uncertain, dangerous path with no access to essential services. That's why, even if it seems little, we go out in the racer to look for them. That's why, even if it seems little, we leave water for them at the altars they build in the desert.”And that is why, although sometimes the needs of the vulnerable migrant population seem unmanageable, the Mexican Red Cross offers them basic medical attention, pre-hospital care, psychosocial support and services that help them reestablish contact with their families.The Red Cross offers these services throughout the country, from border to border, thanks to its network of humanitarian service points and thousands of volunteers who, with their commitment, keep humanity alive.

07/05/2024 |

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day: Lebanese Red Cross offers relief and a ray of hope for migrant shipwreck survivors

Every year, hundreds of people of Lebanese, Syrian and other nationalities set off from the shores of Lebanon on extremely perilous sea journeys in desperate search for a better life.These journeys often end up in tragedy: In September 2022, a boat carrying over 140 migrants leaving Lebanon sank off the coast of Tartus, Syria; many people drowned, while others went missing.In other cases, boats leaving Lebanon have been pushed back by authorities in countries of destination.Since 2019, Lebanon has been facing anevolving complex humanitarian crisis, with severe inflation, unemployment and deteriorating living conditions pushing people to leave the country.“People who usually take the decision to leave often tell us that they have nothing to lose, so they are willing to risk their lives in order to have a chance at a better life in another country,” says Alaa Ammar, Migration Lead and Protection Coordinator at the Lebanese Red Cross.Migrants who survive drowning incidents return to the shore suffering from exhaustion and in need of medical assistance. They often have a place to go to, or a relative to stay with, but they don’t have any money for transportation or to simply get by.Bringing services where needed mostRecognizing the needs of migrants who suffer the consequences of pushbacks from other countries and shipwrecks, the Lebanese Red Cross established mobile Humanitarian Service Points (HSPs) covering different locations along the Lebanese coast.These HSPs are safe, welcoming and strategically located spaces where migrants and displaced people can access reliable support from Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.“The Lebanese Red Cross’ mobile HSPs offer a variety of services based on the need and urgency of the situation,” says Alaa, who also oversees a program called Restoring Family Links that helps migrants reconnect with family members. Other services include emergency medical assistance, shelter, water, hygiene and sanitation services, relief items, food, psychosocial support, and transportation.Since their establishment, mobile HSPs have been deployed on more than eight occasions in Lebanon; this includes responses in Beirut, Tripoli and at the Syrian border.The most recent shipwreck incident occurred in December 2023, off the coast of the northern city of Tripoli, with Lebanese authorities rescuing 51 people, all of whom received emergency medical assistance from a Lebanese Red Cross mobile HSP.The critical factor: trustBut to deliver its life-saving assistance, the Lebanese Red Cross HSPs often rely on people’s trust, which is an essential component that allows the Red Cross Red Crescent movement to operate in local contexts around the world.“The trust that the Lebanese Red Cross has built with people in Lebanon over the years is very evident and is shown by survivors, who often say that they feel relieved when they see our emblem,” Alaa adds.The Lebanese Red Cross’ migration program, including HSPs, has been supported by the Middle East & North Africa Migration Network, a regional network that consists of 15 Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies, led by the IFRC regional office in collaboration with the ICRC and Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies from other regions.“The MENA Migration network was established to strengthen and share expertise and experiences to work with and for migrants, including refugees, their families, and host communities,” says Yasmin Hakim, Migration and Displacement Officer at the IFRC Middle East and North Africa Regional Office.“This year, the network plans to equip National Societies with the skills and leading training initiatives for their staff and volunteers on migration and HSPs to enhance their readiness and preparedness to assist migrants and displaced people.”--Click here to learn more about Migration and Displacement. For an overview of IFRC’s migration programs,click here.

10/04/2024 |

IFRC calls for humane implementation of the European Pact on Asylum and Migration

The European Parliament has approved the European Pact on Asylum and Migration, now the focus shifts to implementation. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) asks all European Union (EU) Member States to guarantee humane conditions for asylum seekers and migrants affected, never losing their focus on human dignity and human rights. The IFRC has concerns. The Pact focuses on the normalization of detention and speedier processes at borders. Both are worrying. Detention damages people. Quick decisions can risk returning people who should be granted asylum. In the Pact’s implementation, EU countries must ensure the systemic use of detention is avoided at all costs, and that individuals are always treated as individuals.Effective collaboration and solidarity between EU states will be vital too. The Pact maintains the principle that asylum seekers remain in the country where their application was first registered to be entitled to accommodation and other services. This will not encourage other Member States to help relocate asylum seekers and share responsibilities. Nor, in our view, will a tougher regime reduce the number of migrants coming to Europe, as the Pact assumes.As the EU and its Member States begin to implement the Pact, it’s essential that migrants continue to get assistance, support and humanitarian aid. We need to ensure the Pact is operationalized in a way that upholds the welfare, rights and dignity of all migrants. This is why it is crucial that humanitarian organizations such as the IFRC and National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are part of dialogue on the implementation.Appealing to the European Union and its Member States, Ezekiel Simperingham, the IFRC's migration and displacement manager says: “The IFRC is calling on the European Union and its Member States to remember that at the heart of these decisions are real people with hopes and fears. We need to treat everyone with kindness and respect, no matter where they come from. This is how we can make sure everyone's rights and dignity are protected.”More information:For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Brussels:Eva Oyon: +3222350922In Geneva:Mrinalini Santhanam: +41763815006

02/04/2024 |

Dr. Fatma Meriç Yilmaz: ‘Regardless of culture, country, creed, language or religion,’ ensuring everyone has a seat at the table

As the first female president of the Turkish Red Crescent, Dr. Fatma Meriç Yilmaz talks about her National Society’s role in supporting one of the world’s largest refugee populations and in running the world’s most ambitious humanitarian cash assistance programmes. She also discusses the continuing impacts from the earthquake that struck Türkiye and Syria in Feb 2023. As a champion of women in humanitarian leadership in Türkiye and globally, shetalks about the significant gains made in recent years and what still needs to be done to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

16/03/2024 |

IFRC and SOS MEDITERRANEE urgently call for a closer port of safety for survivors of Mediterranean tragedies

Marseille, Berlin, Milano, Budapest, GenevaTwo days after more than 60 people died on a raft in the Central Mediterranean, survivors from other rescues this week remain in limbo, far from an approved port of safety.The teams onboard Ocean Viking - a vessel chartered by SOS MEDITERRANEE and in partnership with the IFRC - operated four separate missions within a 48-hour period this week, rescuing 361 men, women, and children from perilous conditions at sea.One of the rescues was of 25 survivors from a raft on which more than 60 died before help arrived. Those 25 have now been disembarked. Two were medically evacuated by helicopter (despite all efforts, one subsequently died). After urgent calls for permission to land at the nearest port of safety, the other 23 survivors were transferred at the anchorage off the Sicilian port of Catania to land forurgent medicalcare.But 336 survivors from the other three rescues remain on board the Ocean Viking, which is now heading to Ancona, much further north.“These survivors need urgent care and that means getting them a port of safety as soon as possible” said Jennifer Vibert, IFRC Operations Manager. “Half of the survivors are very young – children or teenagers – many were found in an extremely fragile physical and mental state. The majority suffered severe dehydration and some had resorted to drinking seawater. Others sustained burns from the fuel and seawater mixed in the raft. Medical teams on board the Ocean Viking provided urgent medical care and provided critical hygiene items, food and water. But the survivors urgently need land-based care.”"Our hearts are heavy as we acknowledge the lives lost and the suffering endured. It is essential to understand what happened from the moment the boat departed up to the discovery of the survivors to prevent such a tragedy from happening again,” stated Soazic Dupuy, SOS MEDITERRANEE’s Director of Operations.The tragedies of this week further underscore the severity of the ongoing crisis in the Central Mediterranean Sea, the deadliest route for people on the move in the world. SOS MEDITERRANEE and IFRC remain committed to their joint life-saving mission at sea. The humanitarian needs in the region far exceed the existing response capacity, and restrictions on access to lifesaving assistance go against humanitarian principles and international maritime law.SOS MEDITERRANEE and the IFRC urge all States to prioritize sea rescue and to uphold maritime law and human rights along Europe’s southern sea border.For more information or to schedule an interview:IFRC:[email protected] Figanmese: +41 792022033Vusal Safarli: +994 555226716SOS Mediteranee:[email protected]: Alisha Vaya / +33 6 34 10 41 33 /[email protected]: Jean-Christophe Nougaret / +33 6 11 74 10 11 /[email protected]: Francesco Creazzo / +39 3478151131 /[email protected] Salvati/ +393332091366/[email protected]: Carine Fauchs / +41783079718 /[email protected] to the editor:Stories/perspectives from survivors:A man told one of our team members that he lost his wife and baby. The baby died within the first days, followed by the mother on the fourth day.Two helicopters had flown over them. They signed, hoping to be rescued, but nothing happened.Many survivors were suffering from multiple fuel burns that became infected, posing a significant risk of systemic infection and sepsis. Two survivors required IV antibiotics, and one exhibited warning signs of sepsis, requiring inpatient care.View photos from the rescue credited to SOS MediteraneeAbout the IFRCThe IFRC is the world’s largest humanitarian network. Its secretariat supports local Red Cross and Red Crescent action in 191 countries, bringing together more than 16 million volunteers for the good of humanity. The IFRC acts before, during and after disasters and health emergencies to meet the needs and improve the lives of vulnerable people.About SOS MEDITERRANEESOS MEDITERRANEE is a maritime and humanitarian organization for the rescue of people in distress at sea. It was founded by European citizens in 2015 and launched rescue operations in the Central Mediterranean in February 2016. Since then, the organization has assisted more than 38,000 people at sea. Over 9000 people were rescued by the Ocean Viking since she started operating in August 2019. The non-profit organization based in France, Germany, Italy and Switzerland, is mainly funded through donations.

05/03/2024 |

With warmer temperatures approaching, IFRC braces for new year of danger on Central Mediterranean Sea migration route

Geneva/Rome, 5 March 2024:As Europe approaches spring and summer, the IFRC anticipates a surge in the number of migrants risking their lives on the dangerous Central Mediterranean Sea route. The tragic record of 2023, the deadliest year since 2017, IFRC fears for more deaths at sea. Leveraging the partnership with donors, IFRC is dedicated to mitigating as many tragedies as possible in the forthcoming months. Last year's toll, with over 2,500 reported dead or missing along this treacherous route — and possibly many more unreported cases — has significantly raised concerns for migrant safety. The trend of increased crossings during the warmer months signals a continued risk of perilous journeys.Driven by desperation and the absence of safer alternatives, numerous migrants embark on these hazardous voyages in overcrowded and unseaworthy vessels, seeking safety or a better future. Data from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reveals that nearly 23,000 individuals have lost their lives or gone missing on this route since 2014, with the total for the entire Mediterranean exceeding 29,000. The shipwreck off the coast of Greece on June 14 last year, where several hundred migrants are feared to have perished when their overloaded fishing boat capsized, exemplifies the dire risks involved.No other optionTurning a blind eye to this situation is simply not an option, and thanks to the support of donors such as Muslim World League, IFRC is able to take to the sea on board the search and rescue vessel Ocean Viking for another year. Since 2021, 5,693 people were rescued by this operation. Together with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and partner organisation SOS Mediterranee, IFRC will continue to support as many people in distress as possible with food and water, basic needs, medical care and psychosocial support.Jagan Chapagain, Secretary General of the IFRC, earlier this week on board the Ocean Viking in Syracuse, Italy, praised the donors and partners that make this operation possible:“The Ocean Viking has proven to be a beacon of hope in a vast, unforgiving sea. It is a collaboration that goes beyond saving lives; it also reflects a commitment to upholding the principles of solidarity and humanity. I greatly value our partnership with the Muslim World League, and others, who provide us the ability to save lives, together.”Coordinated approachThe operation on board the Ocean Viking is part of a larger effort of the IFRC network to support people on the move around the world throughout their journey. By providing food, water, first aid and other basic needs at so-called Humanitarian Service Points in countries along popular migration routes, the National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies ensure that people can find aid along their journey. By not only running a Humanitarian Service Point on board the Ocean Viking, but also, for example, supporting migrants when they disembark in Europe, we ensure together that people find a sense of humanity along their journey.“As the global landscape continues to evolve due to the climate crisis, increasing disasters and crises, political instability, conflicts, pandemics, growing inequalities, advancements in technology and shifting economic and social spaces, we see how migration and displacement have taken on new dimensions. Existing challenges to people’s lives and livelihoods are being amplified all over the globe and compounding many of the reasons that drive them to migrate.”explained Chapagain in Italy. “We are committed to ensuring migrants, refugees, and other displaced people—no matter who they are and irrespective of their status—are safe, treated with dignity and have their rights respected, including along dangerous and deadly migration routes on land and at sea.”For more information, audio visual material or to coordinate an interview, please contact: [email protected] In Budapest:Julie Enthoven: +36 70 508 5702In Geneva:Tommaso Della Longa +41 79 708 4367Mrinalini Santhanam +41 76 381 5006

04/03/2024 |

Saving lives at sea: 'Something you don’t easily forget'

When people step foot on board the Ocean Viking humanitarian rescue ship, their lives have been hanging by a thread.As the IFRC's operations manager aboard the Ocean Viking, Sara Mancinelli's job is to ensure the distressed people receive the critical care and attention they need.She gives a unique first-person glimpse into the daily life on this floating humanitarian service point at sea.No one can forget“I don’t think anyone can forget their first rescue on board the Ocean Viking. Actually, saving people’s lives, that is something that you don’t forget easily.When spotting a boat in distress, you know what this means for the people on board. Sometimes they have been drifting at sea for days, without food, drinking water and life jackets. Most boats are overcrowded, and people have to hold on for their lives. They know that if they fall into the water, that will most probably be the end. And that every year, thousands of people drown during the same journey.When the Ocean Viking picks people up in such circumstances, there is immense relief. Most people cry when they come on board the ship, or they kiss the floor and fall into our arms. Other people just get very, very quiet, knowing what they have just escaped. The first thing we always tell people is: ‘You are safe.'The first friendly face in a long timeMost survivors who come on board the Ocean Viking have gone through a difficult time. Not only in their days at sea, but also before that. Some have experienced hardship in their country of origin, especially if they come from conflict-afflicted areas.And they have gone through a dangerous journey to reach the shores of the Mediterranean. After a while on board, people start telling us about their journey. These are stories about human trafficking, blackmail, sexual violence, torture and sometimes even slavery. A lot of people tell us: ‘You are the first friendly face that I have seen in a long time.’Being there for peopleDuring their time on board, we do as much as possible to support people. First, we give them dry clothes and food and water. And we provide medical assistance, as many people got hurt during their journey or haven’t had access to medical care in months.We make people as comfortable as possible. There is a shelter exclusively dedicated to women and children, and one for men. And there is room to relax, talk, pray and heal.And of course, we provide psychosocial support. We see that this is much needed, for adults and children. Some minors travel without their parents, some travel with family members that are extremely traumatized. We comfort them as much as possible by playing games and providing colors and toys.Long journey aheadDuring their time on board, most survivors start to realize that their journey is not over. When they arrive to Europe, new challenges lie ahead. We try to prepare survivors for this. We provide information about what to expect when they come to shore, and where to find help. If people have specific needs, for example if they need protection or medical care, we refer them to experts and authorities on land for a follow-up.For migrants who get rescued at sea, their time at the Ocean Viking is only a small part of a long and difficult journey. But it is a journey in which people are often not seen as human beings, treated as a problem, a number, or even as a criminal. So for just these few days, we are doing everything we can to make sure people feel safe, heard, and seen. Because in the end, we are all human.”

01/03/2024 |

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Islamic humanitarian giving

As the world’s largest network of locally based humanitarian organizations and volunteers, the IFRC is uniquely positioned to ensure your Zakat or Sadaqah donation reaches the people and communities who need it most. Fully accredited for receiving Zakat donations, we are based in communities alongside those we support. We act before, during and after disasters and health emergencies to meet the needs of, and improve the lives of, vulnerable people—reaching millions every year.

20/02/2024 |

Birgitte Bischoff Ebbesen: Two years since Ukraine conflict escalation, ‘we have helped 18 million people’ but the needs are still immense

IFRC’sregional director for Europetalks about the conflict that has impacted not just the European continent, but the entire world.Birgitte Bischoff Ebbesenexplains how the principle of neutrality — along with an inspiring level of humanitarian solidarity— has helped the IFRC assist some 18 million people impacted by the crisis. She explains why mental health services are now at the forefront of our response and she takes on several other hot humanitarian topics, from climate change to migration and the inclusion of women in humanitarian leadership.

08/02/2024 |

Kate Forbes: ‘I wasn't surprised, but I was still shocked’ — IFRC’s new president takes on today’s toughest humanitarian challenges

Inspired by her mother’s work helping migrant farm workers in the southwestern United States, Kate Forbes grew up understanding how hard people struggle for a better life. Starting as a Red Cross volunteer at her local branch, she now leads the world’s largest network of local humanitarian organizations. As newly elected president of the IFRC, she talks about extraordinary volunteers she’s met around the world who’ve risked everything to help others, and she explains her approach to today’s most complex humanitarian crises, from climate change to migration.

19/01/2024 |

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Migrants are #NotAlone

Across the globe, people who migrate or are displaced from their homes face unacceptable risks. But people on the move are not alone in their journeys. Whether at land or sea, the work of the IFRC Network aims to save lives, reduce risks and provide access to essential services.

15/11/2023 |

Migration: Ecuador Red Cross goes out on the streets to provide critical services for Venezuelan migrants — every step of the way

Cristia, Winston, Yender and Belkis are four very different people, from various walks of life. But they have one thing in common. They are all Venezuelans who have traveled thousands of kilometers first through Colombia, on their way south into Ecuador. Their realities are very different, and their needs vary throughout their journey. At some points, they need information and a phone call; and at another point along the route, they seek medical attention, or someone to talk to who they can trust. The movement of people from Venezuela to Ecuador is just one of the many routes that migrants cross throughout the Americas as they search for a better future. The IFRC network is present in 22 countries in the region, and is constantly assessing the needs of migrants to identify the best way to support those who need it most. As in many other places, along other migration routes, the Ecuador Red Cross endeavors to meet the migrants when they are most in need, wherever they are, to ensure they are safe and healthy, physically and emotionally. 1. Crossing borders to an unknown path Walking with the help of two crutches, Cristia is followed by her husband Winston after crossing the Rumichaca border bridge that separates Colombia from Ecuador. Pregnant women, children, elderly or people who are injured or disabled like Cristia cross this border to an uncertain future, without knowing where they will sleep and eat along the way. It is estimated that nearly 475,000 Venezuelan migrants and refugees live in Ecuador. On the way, they may face many risks: xenophobic harassment, hunger, the danger of climbing on and off of cargo trucks, spending nights in the street regardless of the weather, as well as sexual violence, robbery and extortion. 2.Information is critical On the side of the road, Cristia waits next to the passing of noisy and fleeting tractors, while Winston looks for information on how to get to Peru. There, family members who took the same route months ago are waiting for them. Cristia and Winston get much of the information they need through massive WhatsApp groups, administered by other people who have migrated before. When crossing from one country to another, the couple lost access to mobile data, the currency changed and they do not know how to continue their journey. In response to these kinds of needs, the Ecuadorian Red Cross provides basic information and guidance to families; so they know where to receive support such as food kits, resting points and personal hygiene. They also share with them the location of the Mobile Health Units on the roads, where they can receive psychological first aid and primary medical assistance. This service is possible thanks to the Programmatic Partnership between the IFRC network and the European Union, which provides strategic, flexible, long-term and predictable funding, so that National Societies that are part of this program can provide more efficient and effective humanitarian support. 3. Connected at every step Those who still have a cell phone can keep in touch with their loved ones. But often times, phones and address books may be lost or stolen and they may have no way to call their relatives to inform them that they are still alive. To address this problem, the Ecuadorian Red Cross offers the Restoring Family Links service, which allows migrants to communicate with people close to them to tell them how they are doing. Red Cross volunteer Mateo Rios offers national and international calls, internet connection and access to social networks to 130 people per month. “Restoring Family Links is very emotional.Some people carry a great uncertainty as they have not been in contact with their families for weeks, and carry the weight of the dangers they have experienced. This is how we volunteers work to maintain people's confidence, so that they can move forward”, says Mateo. 4. Recovering to move forward While Cristia and Winston stop to receive more information, there are those who, like 19-year-old Yender, walk down the road with companions they met on the road. Here, Yender and his group wait their turn to enter the Mobile Health Unit, where around 40 people are attended every day. “I have been cold, rejected and mistreated,” says Yender. “Food is not ensured on the route and in some places they don't even give us a glass of water, even though we are dehydrated. The food kit given to us by the Red Cross gives us strength, and soon when the doctor sees me, I want him to tell me how my health is''. After receiving medical and psychological assistance, Yender and his friends recharge their energies, say goodbye to the humanitarian team and continue their journey south. 5. Settling in a new home, a new country In addition to the transit cities and towns where people spend brief hours on their way to their final destination, there are places where people settle down and start a new life from scratch. Ibarra is one of those cities, surrounded by the Andean mountains. Those who have just arrived do not have the means to buy food, basic goods or pay rent. There, the Ecuadorian Red Cross provides cash assistance and support to migrant and host population small businesses. This is the case of Belkis Colmenares. She has been living in Ecuador for two years, left Venezuela three years ago and lives in a three-room apartment with twelve other people, seven of whom are children. “Two months ago we found out about the help being offered,” says Belkis. “A girl from the Red Cross accompanied us to the ATM and they gave us the money with which I bought food, paid part of the rent and medicines for my husband, who suffers from a mobility disability. Even though the money is gone as soon as it arrives, I felt happy because it took a great weight off my shoulders.”

31/10/2023 |

Nataliia Korniienko: Helping her fellow refugees cope with the stresses of conflict, migration and starting over

Nataliia Korniienko knows firsthand the psychological and emotional stresses of conflict, migration and living as a refugee. In 2022, she was a mental health and psychosocial field officer for the ICRC when conflict finally forced her and her daughter to leave for Poland. Now her experience as a psychologist, former Ukrainian Red Cross technical adviser and refugee is helping her provide services to other Ukrainian refugees throughout Europe as a mental health and psychsocial specialist for the IFRC.

09/10/2023 |

Climate of migration: Climate crisis and conflict push more people to drought-stricken Djibouti

“Gargaar” is a local Somali word used in Djibouti to express community solidarity. Evident throughout the country, gargaar means communities are hospitable and welcoming, ready to host and help anyone they encounter. With fighting and insecurity in neighbouring Ethiopia and Somalia, more people are coming into Djibouti and so gargaar is on full display in many communities across the country. But with the area also going through one of the worst series of successive droughts in history, it’s clear that much more must be done to meet the mounting needs of people hit by the combined impacts of conflict, migration and climate change. Most travel more than 500 kilometres by foot, some continuing to the Gulf countries such as Yemen and Saudi Arabia across the Red Sea. The arduous and long journey, through harsh heat, across wild terrain and over rough seas, bears a heavy toll on men, women, and children. Many die along the way. ‘By God’s grace we have made it here,” says Fatouma, who came to Chekeyti, in southwestern Djibouti, from Ethiopia with her two young children. She is exhausted and her baby is restless from fatigue. They walked over 600 kilometres in unimaginable heat, through a landscape full of hyenas and snakes, and always in danger of harassment. “I had no choice; life was unbearable because of the clashes in Afar-Somali region and the lack of food because of drought,” she explains. “I heard life is better and more peaceful in Djibouti. We walked for days. Some days the thirst was unbearable. My children came very close to death. Some of the people we were with did not make it.” The community in Chekyeti welcomed them to settle and even use their water from a ‘barkaad’ (an underground water reservoir) nearby. When Djibouti Red Crescent in a recent assessment asked the community leader the most vulnerable households to receive cash distribution, they did not hesitate to also nominate the Ethiopian migrants living among them. This shows how deep rooted gargaar is in Djibouti, despite the host communities being themselves stretched of resources such as food and water. Successive droughts in the last decade means that many Djiboutian pastoralists have lost their livestock and livelihoods and have found themselves internally displaced, impoverished and dependent on humanitarian assistance. To ‘die trying’ The generosity of strangers therefore can be a critical lifeline and the Djibouti Red Crescent Society (DRCS) plays a critical role, reaching out to people at critical points in their journey when they are most vulnerable. Young men, some not more than thirteen years old, undertake the journey unaware of the dangers ahead. Family members back in Ethiopia invest all their life savings so these young people can search for a better life. As a result, the migrants cannot bear to turn back and be seen as failures. They often say they would rather ‘die trying’. The DRCS therefore has endeavored to bring services through mobile units that meet many of these young men, women and children out on the migration routes. Using only one vehicle, a driver and volunteers, the Red Crescent here has assisted more than 7,000 migrants within seven months through first aid, water, energy dry food, family links and psychosocial support. These mobile units and humanitarian service points offered lifesaving interventions in both the northern and southern parts of Djibouti’s key migration route. Unfortunately, DRCS had to stop this operation due to lack of resources. “The situation of drought-induced hunger is alarming,” says Amina Houssein, the secretary general of DRCS. “Unemployment and low levels of social protection, along with rising food prices and very low levels of food production means families are likely to go by with just a meal a day.” “The incidences of floods, high heat, droughts, as well as the prevalence of diseases and shocks have hit rural communities the hardest,” Hussein adds. “Our priority actions have been lifesaving basic needs assistance through multipurpose cash assistance, as well as water, sanitation and hygiene for human and animal consumption.” Through a Disaster Relief Emergency Fund, or DREF, allocation from IFRC in August, the DRCS has been able to deliver assistance to 45,000 people. But the needs are still enormous. Projections from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification indicate that around 285,000 people, representing 24 percent of the total Djibouti population, will be acutely food insecure, and around 100,000 people will be in emergency food insecurity, by the end of the year. More than 30,000 children under 5 years of age are also expected to face acute malnutrition this year. Dire need of support A small National Society of just 37 staff, five branches and some 1,000 volunteers, DRCS is committed to doing the most with its incredibly stretched resources. With availability of funds, DRCS would like to revive its Mobile Humanitarian Service Points assistance to migrants, including those who entered the country outside legal channels. Such “irregular migrants”, as they are often called, face high vulnerability to economic exploitation by smugglers, abuse, physical and/or gender violence, potential for disease transmission, poor humanitarian conditions and loss of life. But these are not the only challenges the National Society faces. Recent sudden floods, mostly in the highlands of neighbouring Ethiopia, has also displaced more Djiboutians and left some communities completely cut off. “With the predicted El-Nino set to happen end of the year, we will need more help to mitigate the effects of flooding in this area,” says Mohamed Abass Houmed, governor of the Tadjourah region, which faces high risk of continued flooding. “Our biggest disadvantage is the poor shelter and road network especially in remote communities. In the event of a flood, some already vulnerable communities will be cut off”. Surviving with cash support and charcoal As part of its hunger crisis respone, the Djibouti Red Crescent distributed cash to a targeted 1,500 households. In one locality, they were able to do so through mobile money transfers. Meanwhile, families are doing whatever they can to survive. For most, the three rounds of cash distribution, which they used mostly for food and medicine, were not enough. To adapt to the erratic weather patterns and make ends meet, most communities abandoned pastoralism and farming and resorted to charcoal burning. Cutting down of trees for charcoal, however, inadvertently worsens conditions and increasing their climate risk. “Ask any community here in Djibouti what is their greatest need — you will get a resounding call for water,” says DRCS’s Houssein. “With the availability of funds, we at DRCS would additionally like to support communities through water rehabilitation projects, as well as tree planting as a mitigation measure for future climatic shocks.”

18/09/2023 |

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IFRC Secretary General Keynote speech at the 10th Pan African Conference in Nairobi

Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, colleagues and friends, I’m so pleased to be here in vibrant Nairobi. You have always extended such warmth and enthusiasm every time I visit Africa. Thank you for your unmatched hospitality. I am grateful to Kenya Red Cross for hosting Pan African conference of the IFRC. IFRC Vice President Elder Bolaji Akpan Anani, Chair of the PAC. Governor Korir of the Kenya Red Cross. Governing Board members, Commission and Committee chairs of the IFRC, of the Standing Commission, Africa governance group, Vice President of ICRC (continuing our proud history to invite ICRC to IFRC statutory meetings because we can be successful when we work together as a Movement), National Society and youth leaders, staff and volunteers and the entire IFRC secretariat team. I want to particularly recognize the Africa team led by our Regional Director Mohammed Mukhier for working tirelessly to support the organization of the conference. I pay tribute to all of you for your immense contributions to the IFRC network, today and always. Your dedication to the communities we serve is unparalleled, especially through the recent growing complex crises across Africa. Let me join in solidarity with Morocco and Libya as they work hard to recover from two terrible disasters. As we gather here today, I am struck by the rich tapestry of Africa’s history, cultures, and the extraordinary resilience and spirit of its people. Yet, this comes with its own set of opportunities and challenges. A continent of immense beauty and diversity, Africa presents us with a complex humanitarian landscape. Africa is a place of paradoxes, where soaring aspirations uncomfortably co-exist with profound inequalities. Humanitarian needs are growing each day, stretching the bounds of lives, livelihoods, and human dignity. Poverty, inequality, and political instability compound these humanitarian needs. Economic challenges including high unemployment rates, limited industrialization, and a heavy reliance on primary commodities for export make many African nations vulnerable to fluctuations in global markets. We continue to witness alarming hunger levels across the continent, with 167 million facing acute food insecurity in Sub-Saharan Africa, a 14% increase from 2022. The impact of El Niño in 2023/2024, forecasts a 90% probability of flooding in Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia, alongside reduced rainfall in Southern Africa. We know this will further exacerbate food insecurity in the coming years, as African food systems are very vulnerable to climate extremes and shifts in weather patterns. Disease and epidemics are on the rise as a result. Last year, 96 disease outbreaks were officially reported in 36 countries, with cholera, measles, and yellow fever being the most common. As climate disasters worsen, 7.5 million people were displaced in Africa, the highest annual figure ever reported for the region. And with the cascading effects of political instability in a number of countries, the number of people on the move have begun to climb as well, with 9 million people torn from their homes in 2022. We cannot forget that behind these distressing statistics are actual people –women, men, and children with increasing needs and less resilience to cope. These are the challenges that exist in a continent which is full of young and dynamic population full of unparalleled vibrancy and dynamism. It also has many beautiful tourist destinations. This is a continent full of natural resources - minerals, oil and gas, timber, agricultural land, fisheries, renewable energy, gemstones, water resources, forestry products. Almost everything you can think of. It makes me wonder how come a continent so full of resources is also facing so many challenges. How can we contribute to addressing these humanitarian gaps? Please allow me to share just three fundamental approaches that could help us to make a meaningful contribution to the people and communities in Africa. First is Solidarity – Working together in partnerships: We are bound together in our journey in search of a brighter future. The expanding humanitarian needs push us to the brink, but our unwavering solidarity pulls us back and drives us forward. Solidarity and commitment to our Strategy 2030 and Agenda for Renewal allows us to respond to multiple crises and disasters, build community resilience and strengthen localization in this region. Just last month, I visited Gambia and Egypt to better understand the migration situation. My conversations with volunteers, National Society and government leaders were eye opening. When it comes to migration, Africa is a continent on the move. This comes with positive benefits too—In Gambia migrants contribute to 20% of the country’s GDP. To the rest of the world, the migration of Africans is often framed around their movement beyond Africa’s borders. Yet the story of the millions of refugees and internally displaced people being hosted within Africa, which is more than 85%, is not acknowledged. Through the IFRC’s Global Route-based Migration programme and humanitarian service points we witness how Africans are overwhelmingly supporting fellow Africans on the move. Africans standing shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow Africans, is a testament to our capacity to overcome adversity. As we address urgent crises before us, it's our combined strength that forms our bedrock of hope. Internal solidarity sometimes can be challenging. Let us not doubt ourselves in our commitment to solidarity. Let us foster trust and belief among ourselves. Second is Solutions to scale- think big, act big: Across Africa much progress has been made and the vast opportunities lie ahead. 34 countries, representing approximately 72% of Africa’s population, have demonstrated significant progress in governance over the last two decades, especially in the areas of rule of law, the protection of rights, and growth of civil society. Africa’s great untapped potential is more visible than ever, with economic growth and investment in public services contributing to the improvement of millions of lives and transformation of societies. The theme of this 10th Pan African Conference is renewing investment in Africa. I suggest that we make this investment people centric. You may want to consider calling it "renewing people-centric investment in Africa". I encourage every one of us to consider how investments in National Societies, and especially in their young volunteers, can harness Africa’s agility and innovation that empowers people to address the needs when they come and continue to work to reduce humanitarian needs by building long term resilience in the communities. For this, our Agenda for Renewal guides the IFRC to work for and with National Societies in everything we do. We have invested in scaling up digitalization, risk management, new funding models for greater agility, accountability, and impact to reach the communities. We foster learning and strengthen National Society capacities, so that we become leaders in the humanitarian field, not just in response but in resilience building, data, influence, collaboration, and innovation. In 2020-2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, African National Societies came together with the IFRC secretariat to reach 450 million people with humanitarian services. The REACH initiative between Africa CDC, the African Union and the IFRC comes with an ambition to scale up the community health workforce by two million and strengthening National Society capacity across the continent to address health needs. These are solutions that are tailored to African communities, that reflect African needs and that can be measured by the outcomes we achieve for the people. Let’s not play small. Let’s think big, let’s act big. Because that’s what it is needed now. Third is Leadership – listen, learn and lead. Our humanitarian action must make a positive difference in people’s lives. In this era of fast paced change and shifting political divides, our leadership has never been more crucial. Leadership to partner with others along equal and mutually reinforcing terms, Leadership to position our National Societies as unparalleled community partner, with unmatched local intelligence and reach, Leadership to engage in internal transformation, Leadership to embody our Fundamental Principles, Leadership to invest in young people--Africa’s most abundant and greatest resource--harness their skills, give them opportunities to lead us to a more just and equitable future. Leadership to build trust, internally and externally, to be bold at communicating good news as well as challenges, to bring about collective energy and hope. Leadership that doesn’t accept business as usual. Leadership that strives for excellence in everything we do. There will be ups and downs, but we will persist. This is what leadership is all about. In our pursuit of a brighter future for Africa, let us hold ourselves to lead with accountability, not just to the challenges of today but also to the aspirations of tomorrow. Let every action we take, every initiative we launch, and every partnership we forge be a testament to our unwavering commitment to the people. I wish you a very productive Pan-African Conference. And please allow me to conclude by sharing a quote from Nelson Mandela – «one of the things I learned when I was negotiating that until I changed myself, I couldn’t change others». Let this conference give us the inspiration to be the real agent of change for the people of Africa. Thank you.

10/10/2023 |

5 top tips on maintaining mental health from Red Cross first-responder volunteers

We all know that mental well-being is as important as physical health. But how often do we actively take care of our mental health? What can we do to support ourselves and others? Why not ask some experts? People whose job is to take care of others during and after crises and emergencies. We decided to ask volunteers from a Honduran Red Cross team that provides medical and mental health services to migrants at a mobile Humanitarian Service Point in Danlí, 92 km southeast of Tegucigalpa. To do their job, they must take care of themselves. After all, how can you support others if you’re not processing your own emotions in a productive, healthy way? Here are 5 tips they offered that can help everyone - even if you are not a volunteer - to take care of your mental health, anywhere, at any time: 1. A little help from close ones: Individual and team care. In emotionally intense situations, it is important to rely on work teams, friends and family. You don't have to face it alone. Sharing experiences and reflecting together helps us deal with the emotional impact of daily work. "In the team, we are always trying to fill ourselves with good energy and good attitude towards difficult situations. We always try to take care of ourselves physically, and above all to take care of our mental health. Because we see many cases, aggressive people, without self-control. In childhood care, we can handle a lot of stress, a lot of anxiety, and we try to understand but also to take care of ourselves." Scarlet Chirinos Honduran Red Cross It is necessary to allow yourself to feel and validate all emotions in order to heal, even if they make you feel uncomfortable. Engaging in self-care practices that involve physical activity and moments of relaxation, as well as resting and spending time in nature, or with people you love, can also help you through painful situations. 2. Someone to lean on: Seek professional support. Access to information and psychosocial support resources can save lives. Despite the fact that close to one billion people in the world suffer from a mental disorder, stigma and social difficulties make it difficult to promptly seek help and mental health care. "We rely on our own team, we reflect and share the experiences we have lived through, and that helps us to provide emotional support. But beyond that, there is also a team of mental health professionals that we can rely on." Ángel Zelaya Honduran Red Cross Talking about your emotions is not a sign of weakness, but of strength. You may be struggling with what you feel is part of the human condition and there is no shame in doing so. You are just a person going through a difficult time and doing the best you can. There will always be someone who understands what is happening to you.You can always ask for help. 3. I hear you: Practice active listening Just as sharing your feelings is beneficial to your mental health. Listening to others in an attentive and respectful way, validating their experiences and emotions, can strengthen your relationships and bonds. It can also provide valuable emotional support, and even more so during crisis and emergencies. "For me, this time I have being a volunteer has been very eye-opening. Gettingclose todifferent realities and learning what people live through along the migratory route, helped me grow as a mental health professional." Scarlet Chirinos Honduran Red Cross By practicing active listening, you develop empathy and open yourself to know realities different from your own. When you see that someone is suffering and having a hard time, let's listen, validate, support and, if possible, accompany them to seek professional help. 4. Keep learning: Look for useful resources. Training is a powerful tool for understanding and addressing mental health challenges and identifying symptoms and situations that can lead to stress and anxiety. "In the Red Cross, I was trained from the basics. I learned what the Red Cross was, safety measures for field work, the meaning of our uniforms. I also received training in Psychological First Aid, Restoring Family Links and Protection, Gender and Inclusion. "We know that in the field we need this knowledge to provide adequate care and to protect ourselves, which is part of the Red Cross training." Yaritza Herrera Honduran Red Cross Don't miss the opportunity to strengthen your mental health knowledge and learn how to help yourself and people around you. Visit our mental health page to find more resources. 5. Support others - support yourself: Volunteer service By supporting others in times of crisis and emergencies, you not only provide support to those in need, you can also find meaning and satisfaction in your life. "You see on the news what the people who pass through the Darien go through, they come with their complications, there are people who have even died on the way.... And to see the joy of the adults, when we take care of their children, when they have their medicines and the possibility of healing their wounds, is the most valuable thing. People always leave grateful, giving you blessings". Leonardo Baca Honduran Red Cross The advice and practices shared by Scarlet, Angel, Yaritza and Leonardo show that taking care of our mental health is essential to facing life's challenges and providing effective supportto those in need. Access to mental health services must go hand-in-hand with actions that guarantee basic needs for all people, whoever they are and wherever they are. There is no health without mental health.

22/09/2023 |

SOS MEDITERRANEE and IFRC alerts the Mediterranean deadly as ever as Pope Francis arrives in Marseille to commemorate lives lost at sea

Marseille, Friday, 22 September -Almost ten years after a devastating shipwreck off Lampedusa claimed the lives of more than 360 men, women and children on 3 October 2013, the central Mediterranean is as deadly as ever. During his current visit to Marseille, Pope Francis will once again alert the global public to the humanitarian crisis unfolding at Europe’s southern border by commemorating those missing at sea. In a press conference onboard civil rescue ship Ocean Viking this morning, SOS MEDITERRANEE and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) attested to the heartbreaking situation for people trying to cross the Mediterranean in search of safety. Jérôme, Deputy Search and Rescue Coordinator onboard Ocean Viking said: “Last month, we witnessed firsthand the lack of resources to save lives in the central Mediterranean. We conducted the largest ever rescue operation on the Ocean Viking. In 36 hours of nonstop operations, we rescued 623 people. It was clear that there were more people at risk of losing their lives than we could assist. The work we do is vital, but we cannot do it alone.” The humanitarian needs in the central Mediterranean have been exacerbated by the growing food insecurity in Africa, the conflicts and recent disasters that have struck Libya and other Northern African countries in recent weeks. With no alternative to seek safety, there is no reason to believe that people will stop attempting to cross the Mediterranean. The main objective of search and rescue efforts is to bring people to safe places where they can access their rights. SOS MEDITERRANEE and the IFRC urge all States to prioritize sea rescue and to uphold maritime law and human rights along Europe’s southern sea border. Xavier Castellanos, IFRC Under Secretary General for National Society Development and Operations Coordination said: “IFRC cannot turn a blind eye. Across the globe, people on the move face significant risks to their lives, dignity, and rights. This is a humanitarian imperative that we all have an obligation to address and is why IFRC is responding both on land and at sea. Our humanitarian work aboard the Ocean Viking is a vital part of our mission of protection and alleviating human suffering.” Sophie Beau, co-founder of SOS MEDITERRANEE and General Director of SOS MEDITERRANEE France said: “The unfathomable death toll in the Mediterranean this year could have been prevented if the political will was there. Migration deterrence policies and obstruction of civil sea rescue have only led to more human suffering. As a prominent moral and global figure as well as European Head of State, Pope Francis will use his visit to Marseille to recall the moral imperative underlying the laws and conventions that apply at sea: no one in distress should be left to drown.Ten years after the shipwreck off Lampedusa, we urgently call for global sea rescue missions and for the recognition of the valuable support of humanitarian Search and Rescue organisations.” Note to the editor As of 2021, the IFRC has partnered with SOS MEDITERRANEE onboard the Ocean Viking. This partnership builds on the strength of both organizations: SOS MEDITERRANEE’s sea rescue expertise and IFRC’s longstanding experience in providing relief, protection and health-related assistance to people in need. Find out more here. For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact: SOS MEDITERANEE Press contact: Méryl Sotty Media Manager – +33 6 11 74 10 11 [email protected] IFRC Press contact: Edgar Zuniga Europe Communications Delegate – +36 20 337 7221 [email protected]

15/09/2023 |

From north to south: Honduran Red Cross accompanies thousands of migrants on their return home

Máximo and George are two brothers from Honduras who, faced with unemployment and a lack of opportunities, took the difficult decision to migrate northwards in search of a better future. Their journey towards their dream life, however, did not go as planned."We were stranded, with no money, with nothing, but we kept walking. We had no money for the bus, nothing, but we decided to take the risk. On the way we were assaulted and we were extorted, we almost lost our lives. They pointed a gun at us and told us ‘you pay us, or else we’ll put you in a body bag'," explains George.Stories like this are sadly all too common along the Central American migratory route. Violence from criminal gangs, rising unemployment and cost of living, among other reasons, are all encouraging people to migrate—not only from south to north, but also from north to south.Honduras is a territory of origin, return and transit for migrants. Every day, hundreds of people, sometimes thousands, leave the country. Many others cross it on their way to North America, and many others return to the country when they encounter the same problems abroad that they were trying to flee at home.In 2023, more than 56,000 Honduran migrants like Maximo and George returned to their country, equivalent to over 150 people per day."One of the reasons people return, according to the interviews we have conducted, is to be reunited with their families,” explains Nicol Palacios, Protection Assistant at the Centre for Attention to Returned Migrants (CAMR) in Omoa, north-west Honduras. “The challenges they face on the migration route have a great influence: suffering violence, the long distances they have to walk, spending the night in the street, not having food or at least not the food they are used to in their country. Tiredness is also another reason why they stop; and if they feel dejected, they decide to turn themselves in to the authorities so that they can be returned to Honduras,” she adds.From the Corinto border between Honduras and Guatemala, the Honduran Red Cross (HRC) transports migrants and returnees to the CAMR in Omoa, where they receive support from staff and volunteers from the Red Cross and National Migration Institute. "This Centre gives returnees the opportunity to feel a warm embrace when they return to their country", says Mario Alberto Ávila, Director of the CAMR.Meanwhile, further south in the small town of Belen, the Honduran Red Cross partners with the local government to run a care centre for unaccompanied migrant children and families returning home."All the cases in the centre are tough to listen to, all of them. People come in frustrated and upset because they did not achieve their objective of reaching their destination,” says Gabriela Oviedo from the Honduran Red Cross who runs the care centre.“What has had the greatest impact on us is looking after babies who are only days or months old; children who don't even know how to speak. We welcome them at the centre and give them the loving treatment they deserve until we can hand them over to their waiting family members," she adds. Saving lives and addressing the needs of migrants along the Central America migratory route is becoming increasingly urgent. The IFRC's priority in the region is to provide people on the move with quality assistance tailored to the specific needs of the most vulnerable groups—regardless of people’s migration status or the reasons why they’re on the move.For Marilyn, a young mother from Honduras, it was losing her job due to the COVID-19 pandemic and then losing her home in floods caused by Hurricanes Eta and Iota in 2021 that pushed her to seek a better life elsewhere.But being separated from her two children, who she left with her mother, was not easy. Marilyn attempted to head to North America several times, but never made it to her destination. During her migration attempts she experienced muggings, hunger, breaking her feet, and a boat capsizing."My dream is in about 5 years to have my own house. To set up my own business and for my children to be well, to put them to school. I want them to have better opportunities than I had", says Marilyn.The IFRC network strives to provide assistance and protection to returnees like Marilyn, Máximo and George who are looking for a better future. From July 2022 to May 2023, our emergency appeal addressing the migration crisis in Mexico and Central America has enabled the Honduran Red Cross to provide health services, psychosocial support, water and sanitation services, and cash assistance to more than 59,000 people.As the number of people on the move through Central America continues to rise, the challenge is daunting.But we will continue to defend migrants’ rights and dignity and provide them with vital humanitarian services—whoever and wherever they are. --Learn more about the IFRC's work supporting people on the move.

22/08/2023 |

Saving lives at sea: Ocean Viking ship completes its largest ever rescue in the Central Mediterranean

“I want people to understand that when someone makes this kind of journey it’s because they have no other choice.” These are the words of Ahmed Bentalha, the IFRC Protection Team Leader on board the Ocean Viking rescue ship. Staffed by teams from SOS Méditerranée and IFRC, the ship patrols the Central Mediterranean – one of the most active and dangerous migration routes in the world – to rescue and support people who become stranded at sea. Between 10-12 August, Ahmed and his fellow Ocean Viking crewmembers completed the ship’s largest ever rescue operation – saving 623 people from unsafe vessels within 36 hours and helping them safely disembark in Italy. “The first rescue began at around 8:00am on Thursday 10 August. The second came the following evening at midnight, and after that it was rescue after rescue for the whole day. It was a very hard and intense 36 hours. We didn’t get to sleep at all,” explains Ahmed. “None of the boats we responded to were seaworthy. The people on board were very distressed. They didn’t have life jackets and were packed into the boats with no space to move. Some boats had started taking on water and people were rushing to get it out.” The rescues were carried out by SOS Méditerranée search and rescue teams using RHIBs (Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boats) to bring survivors to the Ocean Viking. “We got them all on board. There were people everywhere. Some had been at sea for a few hours, others for four to five days. We could see the difference in how tired they looked,” says Ahmed. “Physically, most people weren’t in too bad a condition. But some were suffering from fuel burns which happen when fuel leaks from the engine and mixes with sea water, causing a chemical reaction which burns the skin.” Once on board, IFRC teams provide different humanitarian services to those rescued. The medical team, which includes a doctor, nurse and midwife, attends to people’s health needs, while a logistics expert takes care of providing food and essential items. The protection team, led by Ahmed, registers migrants on board the ship, completes age and family assessments and helps them get in contact with their families. “Most people we rescued in this operation were from Sudan, but we also had people from Guinea, Burkina Faso, Bangladesh, Pakistan and other countries. We had people of 26 different nationalities in total – mostly men and women, but also more than 100 children and ten small babies,” says Ahmed. The protection team also talks to survivors about international protection and their rights. And for people needing specialist care, such as survivors of sexual violence or unaccompanied minors, Ahmed contacts authorities and other NGOs on land – in this case, in Italy – to arrange additional support once they disembark. It’s been a trying summer so far for Ahmed and the Ocean Viking. Though winter is a more difficult season in terms of rough weather conditions, the sheer number of people needing support at sea this summer has tested crews to their limits. And just last month, the crew’s lives were put in danger when the Libyan Coast Guard fired shots in close proximity to a rescue team – the third incident of its kind this year. “They started shooting – both close to us and around the boat we were trying to assist. We were instructed to leave the scene despite being in international waters. I tried to communicate with them but they only responded by shooting, so we had to leave the area for our own safety. It was scary,” says Ahmed. Despite the challenges and dangers that crews on-board the Ocean Viking face, Ahmed remains firmly committed to saving lives at sea. “You reach a point where you feel that you can’t take it anymore. But then each time you hear the ‘ready to rescue’ call from the bridge, you get that rush of adrenaline that keeps you going.” “The best moment is when we dock at a port of safety and can disembark people because that’s when we can say our rescue is done – that they finally made it to a safe place.” “As people step onto dry land, they look into your eyes and thank you. Sometimes they hug you and cry. Some people told us ‘because of you, I didn’t die today’. It’s very emotional.” “Being a humanitarian, seeing people in distress and needing help. That’s what keeps us going.” -- The IFRC has been operating a Humanitarian Service Point onboard the Ocean Viking in partnership with SOS Mediterranée since July 2021. Together, we've rescued and provided humanitarian assistance to more than 4,000 people. SOS Mediterranée focuses on the search and rescue side of the operation, while IFRC teams onboard provide humanitarian assistance (such as health and psychosocial support, food, water and information) to people rescued. For more information: Click here to read more about this work. Learn about our Global Route-Based Migration Programme. See more photos from this rescue operation. Visit IFRC GO, our emergency operations data platform, to see real-time data about our Humanitarian Service Point at sea.

14/12/2020 |