Humanitarian Affairs

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC | International Committee of the Red Cross) is a humanitarian organization dedicated to protecting and assisting victims of armed conflicts and other situations of violence. Established in 1863 in Geneva, Switzerland, the ICRC strives to uphold International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and the rights and dignity of the victims. The International Committee of the Red Cross is an impartial, neutral, and independent institution whose main humanitarian mission is to protect the victims of armed conflict and help them. It directs and coordinates the international relief activities performed by the Movement during armed conflicts. 

Greece joined the ICRC in 1877 when the Hellenic Red Cross was founded. The Hellenic Red Cross, as a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, is also engaged in humanitarian activities, disaster response, and health services. Greece is represented in ICRC committees and working groups related to humanitarian aid, emergency assistance, and refugee protection.

The Greek Permanent Mission participates in regular briefings and initiatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and in high-level events, i.e., the World Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, where Greece backed the strengthening of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and the promotion of respect for humanitarian principles in cases of armed conflict.