 |
Philippe Stoll, Communication coordinator of the 32nd International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.
Next week you will kick off the 32nd International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent. Why did you choose “Power of Humanity: the Fundamental Principles in action.” as theme?
This theme represents the values of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement. Our work is based on one critical principle: humanity. Since its creation, 150 years ago, humanity is guiding our action and engagement. I have to add that 50 years ago during the 1965 International Conference in Vienna, seven fundamental principles were proclaimed and represent the compass guiding our way of assisting people in need. This theme is a tribute and a reminder.
The refugee crisis in Europe, terrorism in Paris, conflicts all over the world… Moving times. Has the International Conference – a platform where representatives of nearly every government in the world meet each other– ever been more important than these days?
Absolutely. It is a unique forum of discussion where operators, people working in the field, in emergencies, can meet with policy makers. A moment where we aim at learning from others, improving our practice and establishing new standards and rules. Today’s responses to crisis are very different from 20 years ago. Similarly, the evolution of these crises pushes us to find innovative solutions and to expand our field of responses.
Why did you select Geneva as destination for the Conference 2015?
For many reasons. We should not forget that Geneva is the hometown of Henry Dunant the founder of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. It is also here that were signed the Geneva Conventions, which are still at the heart of the discussions of the 32nd International Conference. It is also an important hub for the diplomatic community which is very much involved in the preparatory work, especially on discussions on the substance.
What are the two biggest challenges for the Red Cross and Red Crescent these days?
We are facing a shrinking humanitarian space where security and (lack of) access are growing challenges. On one side we need to reinforce the respect for existing rules (like the protection of health workers or those protecting civilians). On the other hand, we need to find innovative solutions for new needs (people are more and more connected and expect us to fully integrate them in our response). The other challenge is to maintain the critical link between international and local responses. Our main question is: how can we better serve people in need?
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is the largest humanitarian network in the world. Its mission is to alleviate human suffering, protect life and health, and uphold human dignity especially during armed conflicts and other emergencies. It is present in every country and supported by millions of volunteers. The "Movement" is made up of the following components: the International Committee of the Red Cross, the National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The 32nd International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent will take place on 8-10 December 2015 in Geneva.
http://rcrcconference.org/