Humanitarian Values

At the heart of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement lie the seven Fundamental Humanitarian Principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. These principles guide our mission, which is to prevent and alleviate human suffering, contributing to the preservation and promotion of human dignity and peace.

Our Commitment to Humanity

Since its inception, the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society (SLRCS) has been dedicated to upholding these Fundamental Principles and Humanitarian Values. Our commitment is unwavering, as we provide humanitarian assistance to communities affected by both natural and man-made disasters.

We do so solely based on the needs of those affected, without any discrimination.

Promoting Humanitarian Principles and Values

Driven by these Fundamental Principles and Humanitarian Values, we aim to effect positive change in the behavior of the people we serve. We believe that understanding these principles can make a significant difference in how people interact with one another. Our dedicated volunteers, encompassing individuals of varying ages, religions, and ethnic backgrounds, work harmoniously within communities, upholding Sri Lanka’s rich cultural values. Thanks to our extensive volunteer network, we reach even the most remote communities, ensuring the last-mile delivery of humanitarian aid and services.

Violence knows no boundaries; it is a global humanitarian crisis that touches every continent, country, and community. It is deeply rooted in various social determinants at individual, family, community, and social/cultural levels. In a world marked by increasing isolation, tension, and resorting to violence, it becomes our mission to promote Humanitarian Values and community values that foster respect for all human beings and a commitment to solving community issues collectively.

To fulfill this mission, SLRCS implements programs aimed at promoting the Seven Fundamental Humanitarian Principles of the Red Cross Movement and humanitarian values, such as the protection of life, health, and human dignity, respect for all individuals, non-discrimination based on nationality, race, gender, religious beliefs, class, or political opinion, mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation, lasting peace among people, and service by volunteers, within the communities we serve.

Advancing Humanitarian Values and Preventing Violence

Driven by the Fundamental Principles and humanitarian values, we collaborate with individuals vulnerable to violence to prevent, mitigate, and respond to it. We do this through advocacy and by promoting changes in knowledge, mindsets, attitudes, and behaviors. Our goal is to create environments that respect human dignity and diversity, fostering caring, safe, and peaceful communities.

Our Organizational Structure

The SLRCS’s commitment to Humanitarian Values is embedded in our organizational structure. At the SLRCS National Headquarters, we have a dedicated department specifically focusing on Humanitarian Values. We’ve also trained volunteers in every branch across the country for the purpose of disseminating and promoting the Red Cross Fundamental Principles and Humanitarian Values. These dissemination sessions are conducted in local languages to ensure effective communication and understanding.

We are dedicated to upholding and promoting these fundamental values as we continue our mission to make a positive impact on the lives of the people and communities we serve.