What we do

Humanitarian diplomacy and communication

The ICRC promotes the knowledge, understanding and, when appropriate, the development of IHL by maintaining relations with a wide range of contacts, including States, non-state actors and international organizations. Through dialogue, it explains its positions on issues of humanitarian concern and multiplies contacts to facilitate field operations and raise awareness of the needs of those affected by armed conflict and violence. It strives to defend and promote impartial, neutral and independent humanitarian action and to guard against the use of humanitarian activities for military or political ends.

ICRC statements at the 67th UN General Assembly, 2012

ICRC statements at the 66th UN General Assembly, 2011

Reference documents

Publications More publications

Professional standards for protection work carried out by humanitarian and human rights actors in armed conflict and other situations of violence

A shared basis for the protection work of humanitarian and human rights agencies in armed conflict and other situations of violence.
Red Cross Red Crescent Magazine: the power of humanitarian diplomacy - No. 3, 2011

As the Movement meets with governments during the 31st International Conference, humanitarian diplomacy takes on IHL, health care, nuclear weapons, disaster law and more.

International Review of the Red Cross More articles

Red Cross Red Crescent Magazine

Speaking up for humanity
A voice for vulnerable people in the halls of power, Movement diplomacy ranges from rapid response during emergencies to support for long-term solutions and humanitarian values. Movement efforts at the African Union offer a case in point.