Humanity is the first and most important of the seven principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The other principles help us achieve humanity. It is our goal “to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found and to protect life, health and to ensure respect for the human person”.
The principle of humanity, is at the origin of and a basic rule of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), contained in the universally ratified Geneva Conventions and in the UN Charter. This body of law aims to protect the human dignity in times of war and it is today, the best tool available to to prevent men, women and children from the scourge of war.
Even protected by the law, many times, it seems that there has been a failure of humanity: Extreme violence and inhumane treatment are deliberately choreographed and publicized worldwide. But there is also a story of hope to tell. Refugees and host families sharing homes; prisoners visited; families reunited; medics caring for people; engineers keeping water flowing; vets vaccinating precious cattle, and the urgent transport of food, seeds and shelter. In every armed conflict, people are protected, lives saved and livelihoods sustained thanks to the efforts of humanitarians, including Red Cross volunteers and thanks to the respect of IHL by the parties involved in the conflict.
As members of the Red Cross, it is our responsibility to tap into the various expressions of humanity. This means to successfully understand the principle and therefore be able to recognize how it is protected. Since the principle is the core of IHL, this law is an essential tool to defend humanity in times of war. As Red Cross volunteers and workers, we need to understand how IHL provides limitations to the effect of armed conflicts and we must promote the respect for IHL.
International Services recognizes the importance of IHL and it is committed to its promotion. Therefore, we would like to invite you to join us in a class called Born on the Battlefield. During the training you will be able to learn more about IHL and key programs of American Red Cross around the world.
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
Time: 5:30-8:30 pm
Where: West Los Angeles
11355 Ohio Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Conference Room A
To RSVP click here.
Please contact claudia.espinosa@redcross.org or carmela.burke@redcross.org if you have any questions.
