Welcome to the Weekly Worldwide Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It’s a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work…
[The place names link to maps so that you can get a quick idea of the region.]
NIGERIA: The ICRC is working with the Nigerian Red Cross Society in the Niger Delta to provide first-aid training and first-aid kits for communities with little or no access to medical services. Also, briefing armed forces on the principles of respect for life and human dignity as they apply in that troubled region.
KYRGYZSTAN: The ICRC has sent staff and
medical supplies to help treat casualties as a result of internal disturbances in the capital of Bishkek.
PAKISTAN: Hundreds of thousands have fled the fighting since last November and the
movement has gained pace with the return of warmer weather. The ICRC and Pakistan Red Crescent are stepping up relief efforts in response.
SUDAN: The Sudanese Red Crescent is
preparing for possible election-related violence.
GEORGIA: The number of cars in Georgia has increased over the last three years by 90%, leading to a significant increase in accidents. The Red Cross Society of Georgia is responding with a new
road safety program. (Funded by a grant from the Empress Shôken Fund.)
SIERRA LEONE: Following years of war during which youth have often been both perpetrators of violence and the victims, the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society plans to implement a
youth brass band project to provide these youngsters with a supportive social forum. (Funded by a grant from the Empress Shôken Fund.)
HAITI: Big numbers in the Three-Month Progress Report – millions of liters of water; hundreds of thousands of vaccinations, tents, tarps and supplies; tens of thousand of patients treated, and more.
GLOSSARY:
ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
