Iraq on World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day: Honoring over 40 Years of Cooperation
On May 8th of each year, the world marks the Red Cross and Red Crescent Day—a special occasion to appreciate the courage, compassion, and unwavering humanitarian commitment of the world’s largest humanitarian network, propelled forward by humanity: the single bond that connects all of us across the world, regardless of our color, religion, sex, affiliation or geographical location.
In Iraq, this day is a double celebration as it also commemorates over 40 years of collaboration between the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS).
Together, we have been working hand-in-hand and shoulder-to-shoulder—at all times and under all circumstances: wars, conflicts and natural disasters. We have always been together through thick and thin, and we will continue to stand together in the future, to serve those most affected by different situations of violence or emergencies. We always stand with the most vulnerable populations by assisting them and by ensuring their humanity and dignity are constantly upheld and protected.
In 2024 alone, our partnership has paved the way to reach thousands of people in need across Iraq:
• Health care access: 10 mobile clinics supported by the ICRC and IRCS operated across seven governorates, providing over 12,700 free consultations, especially during mass gatherings and emergencies.
• Water and sanitation: Solar-powered water systems were installed or upgraded in rural areas, reaching more than 11,000 residents in Diwaniyah, Muthanna, Missan, Thi Qar, Wassit, and Babil.
• Preparedness and training: More than 100 IRCS staff and volunteers received capacity-building support in emergency response, health care in danger, climate action, and restoring family links.
• Emergency response: With ICRC support, IRCS distributed over 12,000 food parcels, 1,800 hygiene kits, and 5,000 blankets to communities in crisis.
As we celebrate these efforts, we also reflect on the growing dangers that humanitarian actors face worldwide. Volunteers and staff across the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement are increasingly targeted, even as they risk their lives to protect others. This is a heartbreaking trend that undermines the very essence of humanitarian work.
In Iraq and beyond, our commitment remains clear: to act impartially, to stand alongside those in need, and to uphold the humanitarian principles that define us. Because every life matters. Every act of compassion counts. And every partnership built on trust and shared humanity deserves to be honored.
Conflicts, violence and natural disasters will continue to affect millions of people across the world; nevertheless, humanity will always prevail even in the darkest moments of our life. For us in the RCRC movement, standing with humanity is paramount. It's more than just a word; it's a daily practice – a living embodiment of compassion that we embrace and champion with every act of kindness.
