Senate debates

Wednesday, 9 May 2018

Motions

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day

4:05 pm

Photo of Anne UrquhartAnne Urquhart (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party) Share this | | Hansard source

At the request of Senator Singh, I move:

That the Senate:

(a) notes that:

  (i) 8 May 2018 was World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day and its theme in 2018 was 'Everywhere for everyone, with a smile',

  (ii) this date is a global celebration of the work and bravery of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers around the world, and the diverse humanitarian services they offer in communities everywhere,

  (iii) it also commemorates the birth, 190 years ago of Henri Dunant, the founder of the Red Cross and the recipient of the first Nobel Peace Prize,

  (iv) the activities of the Red Cross are without question a major achievement of human civilisation, both multidimensional and internationally recognised,

  (v) in 1864, the First Geneva Convention was signed, establishing the International Red Cross Movement,

  (vi) since then, the Red Cross has played a decisive role in dealing with numerous humanitarian crises, and

  (vii) the International Red Cross Movement has evolved into the largest humanitarian network in the world, including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and the National Societies active in about 190 countries; and

(b) further notes that:

  (i) every year, around the world, the Movement supports many millions of people affected by conflict, natural disasters and other emergencies, through its network of around 14 million volunteers and 450 000 staff,

  (ii) the current global refugee crisis is an international challenge that calls for solidarity with the afflicted populations, and Australia's constant presence with the help of organisations and movements, such as the Red Cross, and

  (iii) World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is not just a reminder of the principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, but also a starting point for our commitment to alleviating human suffering and protecting human life and dignity in Australia and around the world.

Question agreed to.