Established in 1936 and recognized as the oldest humanitarian organization in the country, the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society (SLRCS) is enshrined in its Constitution as a “voluntary relief organization not promoted in any manner by desire for gain.” For over eight decades, SLRCS has been addressing the humanitarian needs of Sri Lanka with unwavering dedication. Guided by the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, SLRCS functions as an auxiliary to the Government in humanitarian efforts, committed to alleviating the suffering of the most vulnerable.
Over the years, SLRCS has earned recognition for its critical interventions during national emergencies such as the civil conflict, 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the economic crisis, among many other disasters.
As a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, SLRCS adheres to internationally recognized standards in all its operations. The organization aligns its policies and procedures with those of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
Governed by a Central Governing Board elected by its members, the Society operates under a constitution ratified by both the IFRC and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The SLRCS envisions building safer, more resilient, and inclusive communities by promoting humanitarian values, changing mindsets, and supporting long-term community development. While mandated to conduct emergency relief reducing risk, building capacity, and operations, SLRCS also engages in long-term development efforts to strengthen communities, volunteers, and its institutional capacity. The use of the emblem for protective purposes is a visible manifestation of the protection accorded by the Geneva Conventions to medical personnel, units and transport.
SLRCS has played a vital role in responding to nearly every major crisis affecting Sri Lanka, gaining a range of experience, skills, and capacities. Its key strengths and areas of focus include: Social/Community Mobilization, Needs Assessment & Emergency Response, Disaster Risk Reduction & Climate Change Adaptation, Shelter & Livelihood Development, Community Infrastructure Development, Community-Based Health & First Aid, Social Cohesion & Reconciliation, Promotion of Humanitarian Values, Social Inclusion, Humanitarian aid, Camp Management and Restoring Family Links (RFL).
Additionally, SLRCS has contributed to the rehabilitation of village irrigation systems, participatory local planning, and the promotion of eco-friendly agricultural practices. The organization is firmly committed to transparency, accountability, and principled humanitarian action in all its endeavours.
The Sri Lanka Red Cross Society maintains an island-wide presence through a network of 25 branch offices, located in each of the country’s administrative districts. This network supports over 120,000 active members and more than 200,000 volunteers, including approximately 6,500 volunteers who are regularly engaged in delivering humanitarian services at the community level.
