International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Formation5 May 1919 (1919-05-05)
FounderHenry Pomeroy Davison
TypeHumanitarian aid organization
PurposeCarrying out relief operations to assist victims of disasters, combined with development work to strengthen the capacities of its member National Societies
HeadquartersGeneva, Switzerland
Coordinates46°13′40″N 6°8′14″E / 46.22778°N 6.13722°E / 46.22778; 6.13722
Region served
Worldwide
President
Kate Forbes
Secretary General
Jagan Chapagain
Main organ
Governing board
Parent organization
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
BudgetCHF 495,444,000
Employees2,500 (2022)
AwardNobel Peace Prize (1963)
Websitewww.ifrc.org

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is a worldwide humanitarian aid organization that reaches 160 million people each year through its 191 member National Societies. It acts before, during and after disasters and health emergencies to meet the needs and improve the lives of vulnerable people. It does so independently and with impartiality as to nationality, race, gender, religious beliefs, class and political opinions.

The IFRC is part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement along with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and 191 National Societies. The IFRC's strength lies in its volunteer network, community-based expertise and independence and neutrality. It works to improve humanitarian standards, as partners in development and in response to disasters. It persuades decision makers to act in the interests of vulnerable people. It works to enable healthy and safe communities, reduce vulnerabilities, strengthen resilience and foster a culture of peace around the world.