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In today's @nytimes, I argue that the world must act to protect civilians, including humanitarians. @ifrc
nytimes.com/2024/08/26/opini…
Kate Forbes retweeted
"Despite these risks, our colleagues continue to show up not because they are fearless, but because the suffering is too urgent to ignore. Yet, courage is not protection, and dedication does not deflect bullets."
This statement on World Humanitarian Day is attributed to @KateForbes_IFRC, president of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and Mirjana Spoljaric, the president of the International Committee of the Red Cross @ICRC on increasing attacks against humanitarian personnel. #ProtectHumanity
Joint statement: bit.ly/4fMnZhJ
Today, we celebrate the 106th anniversary of the founding of @ifrc. As we pause to reflect on and celebrate the achievements of our network, I am reminded of the vision and legacy of our founder, Henry P. Davison.
ifrc.org/article/one-mans-vi…
Kate Forbes retweeted
Today, together with IFRC President @KateForbes_IFRC, we paused for a moment of remembrance @IFRC headquarters.
We paid tribute to 10 volunteers and staff members of our global network that have been killed this year. Last year, we lost 32 of them. But they are not just numbers — they were colleagues, friends, and humanitarians who dedicated their lives to helping others, standing on the side of humanity.
Today, we remembered. We grieved. And we reaffirmed our commitment to protecting humanitarian workers everywhere.
We must #ProtectHumanity.
Kate Forbes retweeted
“We observed a moment of silence—but we will not be silent.”
Following the loss of eight @PalestineRCS colleagues in Gaza, IFRC President @KateForbes_IFRC reflects on this tragedy, calling for accountability, protection of humanitarian workers, and respect for international humanitarian law.
Kate Forbes's full statement: bit.ly/41XDvlz
To say I am heartbroken doesn’t even begin to describe the depth of sorrow I feel.
Far too many of our colleagues and friends have been taken from us.
They should have been protected.
Their courage should have been honored.
Their memory must never be forgotten.
The @IFRC condemns the killing of eight @PalestineRCS medics in Gaza.
We are heartbroken. These dedicated humanitarians, killed while responding to the wounded, should have been protected.
We mourn their loss and stand with the Palestine Red Crescent.
Full statement: bit.ly/427LXxp
I am back from my visit to Rafah- my second since becoming @ifrc President- and I am sharing what I saw.
The struggle there is no longer just about survival; it is about holding on to humanity in the face of unimaginable hardship.
ifrc.org/article/ifrc-presid…
Kate Forbes retweeted
During her visit to Egypt, @ifrc President @KateForbes_IFRC met with senior officials to discuss relief efforts in #Gaza and humanitarian cooperation:
✅ Meeting with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly to review Egypt’s role in facilitating aid to Gaza and reconstruction efforts.
✅ Meeting with Minister @mayamorsy to discuss volunteer support and enhancing humanitarian work.
✅ Meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdel Aaty to explore Egypt’s potential as a regional hub for relief operations.
During her visit to #Egypt, Forbes closely followed the @EG_Red_Crescent's humanitarian efforts in Gaza, #Sudan, and across the region.
Visiting ERCS headquarters, the Rafah crossing and Arish General Hospital, she reinforced the vital role of humanitarian work and volunteerism in crisis response. She also took part in an iftar event celebrating the dedication of ERCS volunteers.
Kate Forbes retweeted
We stand in solidarity with our colleagues at the ICRC and PRCS in Gaza.
Today, the @ICRC office in Rafah was damaged by an explosive projectile, despite being clearly marked and notified to all parties.
Yesterday, contact was lost with emergency medical teams from the @PalestineRCS and their whereabouts remain unknown.
Civilians and humanitarian workers must always be protected.
📍 Gaza | Today, our office in Rafah was damaged by an explosive projectile despite being clearly marked and notified to all parties.
We decry the attack against our premises. Civilians and humanitarian workers must be protected.
Read more: ms.spr.ly/6013qenvB
ALT Today, an office of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Rafah was damaged by an explosive projectile despite being clearly marked and notified to all parties. Fortunately, no staff were injured in this incident, but this has a direct impact on our ability to operate. We decry the attack against our premises. The resumption of hostilities and violence is causing a loss of hope on all sides. Yesterday, contact was lost with emergency medical technicians from the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) and their whereabouts remain unknown. Last week, humanitarian workers in Gaza were killed and injured. International humanitarian law affords special protection to humanitarian relief and medical personnel, medical facilities, and objects used for humanitarian relief operations. They must be respected and protected in all circumstances to ensure the continuity of care. They must never be attacked.
Kate Forbes retweeted
Following a recent visit to conflict-affected areas in Southern Lebanon, @IFRC President @KateForbes_IFRC reaffirmed in an interview with @LBCILebanon @murat_toni that the IFRC remains committed to supporting the Lebanese Red Cross in its ongoing efforts to assist impacted communities.
She also recounted an emotional moment from her visit to Gaza, stating: “No child, at 3 years old, should be showing someone a picture of their house being destroyed by a rocket”.
Watch the interview 👇
Kate Forbes retweeted
President @KateForbes_IFRC joined the @RedCrossLebanon on a mission to southern Lebanon & the Beirut suburbs areas heavily impacted by the recent conflict. In Shamaa, Tayr Harfa, and Mreijeh, she witnessed the devastation firsthand but also the unwavering dedication of Lebanese Red Cross staff & volunteers.
At the Lebanese Red Cross branches in Tyre and Mreijeh, @ifrc President met volunteers, heard their stories, & thanked them for their unwavering commitment.
Kate Forbes retweeted
President @KateForbes_IFRC is back in Lebanon to commend the @RedCrossLebanon for their tireless efforts in responding to the recent conflict. Their staff and volunteers go above and beyond to support those affected and they remain steadfast in their commitment. Her visit is to amplify their voices and mobilize more resources to sustain their life-saving work to people who need it most.
The tragic air crash over Washington, D.C. has claimed many lives and affected countless others. First responders and American Red Cross volunteers are working tirelessly to provide support and ease suffering. Our thoughts are with all those impacted.
This season of Lunar New Year is a time of family reunions, shared meals and hopes for prosperity. Yet, for many, these moments of togetherness remain out of reach.
May this Lunar New Year inspire us all to strive for a world where dignity, peace and humanity flourish.
Today brings hope. The ceasefire reminds us that even amidst despair, humanity can find a way toward peace. Let this day inspire us all--each one of us--to build a future defined by compassion and solidarity for everyone, everywhere and every day.
Kate Forbes retweeted
As wildfires blaze through the Los Angeles area, tens of thousands have been forced to evacuate their homes. The American Red Cross @redcross is on the ground, working tirelessly with our partners to provide shelter, food, emotional support, and health services to those impacted.
With the threat continuing to grow, it’s essential to remain prepared and ready to evacuate if necessary. Stay informed if you're in the area by downloading the free @RedCross app, it provides real-time updates, evacuation tips, and critical resources to help you stay safe during this challenging time.
I stand in solidarity with the affected communities, first responders, and @redcross staff & volunteers working tirelessly to protect lives and provide relief.
Wildfires & winter storms across the US are stark reminders to prevent & prepare for emergencies. Make a plan. Write down important phone numbers and medications. Download emergency apps and set up alerts. Listen to fire and law enforcement authorities. Be aware.
As we head into the holiday season, may this be a time of peace, renewal and inspiration.
Thank you to our volunteers and staff and everyone who makes our work possible at the @ifrc.
Kate Forbes retweeted
“Polycrisis” has become “permacrisis.” The resolutions passed at the recent Red Cross Red Crescent International Conference will help break an unrelenting cycle, write @jagan_chapagain and @KateForbes_IFRC: dvx.cm/wj7lw3
#Sponsored by @ifrc
On this International Migrants Day, I'm thinking of all the people who, during harrowing journeys, have been helped by the @ifrc network. On land or at sea, migrants deserve access to lifesaving services. At Humanitarian Service Points, we offer safe spaces for essential aid.
In this @devex opinion piece, @jagan_chapagain and I look at breaking the unrelenting cycle of crisis through adaptable humanitarian responses. In an era where “polycrisis" has become “permacrisis”, we need comprehensive solutions @ifrc : devex.com/news/sponsored/opi…
