The 33rd International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent

The International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent is the supreme deliberative body of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (the Movement), where the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions come together with the components of the Movement to discuss key matters of humanitarian concern and to make joint commitments.

“Act Today, Shape Tomorrow” Improving the lives of people affected by armed conflict, disasters and other emergencies is the core objective of the 33rd International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.

The Conference aims to influence the global humanitarian agenda and explore current and future challenges affecting people and communities and the vulnerabilities that they face on the ground.

 The main themes:

International humanitarian law: protecting people in armed conflict – 2019 marks the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the 1949 Geneva Conventions, which are universally ratified. The 33rd International Conference presents an opportune moment for the members of the Conference to reaffirm their commitment to IHL and to work towards its full application and implementation, especially at the national level.

Shifting vulnerabilities –The changes of the 21st century are complex and inter-related. The current shifts in technology, climate, population movements, demography and urbanization are shaping the world we live in. They unavoidably impact millions of people across the world, bearing new opportunities, but also creating new vulnerabilities. These trends are changing the fabric of societies and the humanitarian landscape, to the extent that traditional assumptions and ways of working might not be effective in addressing the challenges presented.

Trust in humanitarian action – is on the agenda of the 33rd International Conference due to the declining trust in institutions and governments, an increase in public scrutiny, and calls for stronger integrity and accountability. This Commission will explore how the components of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement can work together with States to maintain and strengthen trust in principled humanitarian action.

VENUE:

Geneva, Switzerland
9-12 December 2019

Original source: RCRCConference
Published on 27 November 2019