ICRC

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is a humanitarian organization based in Geneva, Switzerland, founded in 1863 by Henry Dunant. It is an independent, neutral organization that provides protection and assistance to people affected by armed conflicts and other situations of violence.

The ICRC has a unique mandate from the international community to promote and enforce the principles of international humanitarian law (IHL), which governs the conduct of armed conflict and aims to protect individuals who are not taking part in the hostilities, such as civilians, wounded soldiers, and prisoners of war. It also plays a crucial role in the development of IHL.

The ICRC operates in conflict zones around the world, providing medical assistance, food, clean water, and other essential aid to affected populations. It also supports the work of local Red Cross and Red Crescent societies in these areas. Additionally, the organization works to reunite separated family members and visits prisoners of war and other detainees to ensure they are being treated humanely.

The ICRC is one of the components of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which also includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies of various countries.