Romania: the ICRC formalizes relationship with the Romanian government

The ICRC has been present in Romania since the escalation of the international armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine in early 2022. It works closely with the Romanian Red Cross Society, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, as well as other Red Cross Societies present in Romania to provide support and assistance to the people affected by this armed conflict.

Also known as a host-country agreement, this document establishes the ICRC's legal status in the country and sets out the general framework for relations between the ICRC and the Romanian authorities. It enables the ICRC to fulfill its vital role in providing humanitarian assistance and protection to those affected by armed conflict.

This headquarters agreement will help strengthen the good collaboration we have been enjoying with the government of Romania. It also gives the ICRC the agility to respond to the existing humanitarian needs related to the international armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as well as any needs that may yet arise. We are committed to continuing this collaboration in addressing the humanitarian needs of people affected by the armed conflict in the region. We would like to thank the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their support that made signing this agreement possible.

Over the past two years, the ICRC has focused on supporting the Romanian Red Cross to further strengthen its capacity to clarify the fate and whereabouts of persons missing because of the international armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as well as promoting the proper use of the red cross emblem.

"On behalf of the Government of Romania, I'd like to emphasize our deep appreciation for the International Red Cross Movement, their commitment and dedicated efforts to provide assistance to those in need, often in very challenging operational contexts. At times when humanitarian crises are increasing in number, scale and complexity, this collaboration is essential for the promotion of humanitarian values. " said Luminița-Teodora Odobescu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Romania.

In addition to Romania, ICRC's regional delegation in Warsaw works to help people affected by the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and promote international humanitarian law in Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

The ICRC is an independent, neutral organization ensuring humanitarian protection and assistance for victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence. It takes action in response to emergencies and at the same time promotes respect for international humanitarian law. Established in 1863, the ICRC is at the origin of the Geneva Conventions and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.