Frequently asked questions

The ICRC is a neutral, impartial and independent humanitarian organization. We have a mandate to help and protect people affected by armed conflict and other violence or – as our mission statement puts it – “other situations of violence”. By “other violence” or “other situations of violence” we mean violence that has not reached the threshold of an armed conflict but is carried out by large groups and has consequences in humanitarian terms. This mandate was given to us by States through the four Geneva Conventions of 1949, their Additional Protocols of 1977 and 2005 and the Statutes of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement of 1986. Our mandate and legal status sets us apart from both intergovernmental organisations (such as the specialized agencies of the United Nations) and non-governmental organisations. This status allows us to function independently of governments and to serve, with complete impartiality, the people most in need of protection and assistance.

The ICRC is part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which also comprises 189 National Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The ICRC works closely with the National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Federation to ensure a concerted, efficient and rapid response to conflict or violence. The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is the largest humanitarian network in the world.

Our mission is to protect the lives and dignity of those affected by armed conflict and to provide them with assistance, such as food and clean water, health care and shelter. We also work to prevent and alleviate the suffering of those affected by other situations of violence, such as internal disturbances and tensions.

We promote humanitarian values and principles through our advocacy and awareness-raising efforts. We work to raise awareness about the impact of armed conflicts on civilians, advocate for the rights and protection of vulnerable people, and foster respect for international humanitarian law among states, armed groups and other relevant actors. We also engage in dialogue and cooperation with governments and non-state actors to promote the integration of humanitarian principles into policy and practice.

Neutrality is a fundamental principle that guides our work. It means that the ICRC maintains a neutral stance and that we do not take sides in armed conflicts or political disputes. This is how we are able to provide humanitarian assistance to people who need help at the front line.