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Background
The American Red Cross is a part of the International Red Cross and Red
Crescent
Movement a phrase that symbolizes the unity of all Red Cross work
carried out by the
International Committee of the Red
Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red
Cross and Red Crescent Societies
(IFRC), over 170 Red Cross and Red Crescent
national societies around the world,
and the Magen David Adom in Israel.
The mission of the
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is to relieve
human suffering, wherever it may be
found; to protect life and health; to ensure respect
for the human being, particularly in
times of armed conflict and natural disaster; to help
prevent disease; to promote health
and social welfare; and to encourage voluntary
service. The Fundamental Principles
of the Movement are humanity, impartiality,
neutrality, independence, voluntary
service, unity, and universality. As a major part of
the International Red Cross and Red
Crescent Movement, American Red Cross
International Services supports
humanitarian relief around the world.
Activities Include:
Tracing
relatives separated during disasters or wars.
Educating
the public about international humanitarian law.
Responding
with personnel, financial aid, and in-kind donations in response to
appeals for relief assistance in armed conflicts and international
disasters.
Helping
to strengthen Red Cross and Red Crescent societies in other nations by
sharing the expertise and resources of the American Red Cross.
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