The ICRC

Established in 1863, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) operates worldwide, helping people affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence and promoting the laws that protect victims. It is an independent and neutral organization whose mandate stems essentially from Geneva Conventions of 1949.

The ICRC’s Mission Statement

The International Committee of the Red Cross is an impartial, neutral and independent organization whose exclusively humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence and to provide them with assistance.

“…impartial, neutral and independent organization”

The ICRC also endeavours to prevent suffering by promoting and strengthening humanitarian law and universal humanitarian principles.

ICRC Somalia delegation

The ICRC first began its work in Somalia back in 1977 when war broke out between Ethiopia and Somalia. It has maintained its presence in Somalia since, responding to the needs of conflict victims, often aggravated by natural disasters. The Somalia Red Crescent Society (SRCS) is ICRC’s main operation partner in Somalia. Using SRCS expansive network across the country, the ICRC in collaboration with the local community work to improve primary health care services and treatment of weapon wounded. They also support emergency assistance for the most vulnerable, boost livelihoods and restore family links between family members separated by conflict.

The ICRC also engages in dialogue with all the conflicting parties discussing humanitarian issues and the rules applicable to the conduct of hostilities. In line with its neutral, impartial and independent principles, it encourages respect for International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and reminds all parties of their obligation to ensure protection of those not participating in the hostilities.

Email: somaliablog@icrc.org

Offices:

Community Contact Centre
373

Telephone
+254 709 132 000
WhatsApp
+254 706 408 908