Understanding the Fundamental Principles
What is a “principle”?
Webster’s New World Dictionary defines principles as “a rule of conduct". It is a basic notion that expresses fundamental values accepted by a community, and involves general rules, rather than specific ones. In the view of the Red Cross, a principle is a guideline to help us frame our experience as we interact with others and provide programs and services.
1. When were the Red Cross Principles proclaimed?
At the 20th International Conference of the Red Cross, Vienna, 1965.
2.There are seven Fundamental Principles:
Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, Universality. More»
3. What do the Red Cross Principles express?
They express guidelines which give consistency and predictability to the everyday actions of the Red Cross even if the organization is responding to situations that are changing rapidly. The principles convey elements of security and certainty to the members of the Red Cross as well as to outside world, and create a framework for action and attitude of all Red Cross members that others can rely on. The principles are steadfast even in crisis situations.
Fundamental Principles - Scenarios
4. Are all the Fundamental Principles equal?
No. The order of the principles is important because not all principles have the same status. The essential principle is Humanity, from which all others derive.
Within these principles are “substantive principles.”
5. What characterizes the substantive principles?
They are the objectives we strive to live by, not absolutes. Substantive principles include non-discrimination and proportionality; these ensure that the people who need help the most are assisted first.
6. Why is Neutrality not considered a substantive principle? How could we define it?
Neutrality is not an absolute, but a guideline to help put the substantive principles into action. Neutrality gives a guarantee to the Parties in a conflict and thus creates a basis for humanitarian action: because of impartiality, parties can have confidence in how the Red Cross will behave – we won’t pick sides.
Fundamental Principles - Scenarios
7. How would you describe the importance of this set of principles? How would they help you behave as a Red Cross member?
They represent a universal doctrine designed to provide a stable framework for daily action. Guidelines which enable the worldwide and tremendously diversified Movement of the Red Cross to maintain its course in often troubled times and circumstances.
The Fundamental Principles help influence the behavior of a Red Cross member by giving them a standard to strive toward. Once you know and understand the Fundamental Principles, they become your personal barometer that helps you foster unity and caring between human beings all over the world.
