In Strategy 2030, we understand the vital importance of our neutrality but do not believe that neutrality should mean silence. Individually, and collectively, the Red Cross and Red Crescent should have the courage to speak out in support of the communities we work with, and for the wider cause of humanity.

We recognise that the challenges facing our world are complex and multi-faceted. We will need a systemic approach to addressing these – and this will involve advocacy, humanitarian diplomacy, and communicating about what we do.

We will continue to promote and defend International Humanitarian Law; ensure global laws and standards are evolving alongside the changing contexts; and expand research, thought leadership and advocacy into global standards and laws governing disaster and crisis response, both domestically and globally.

As the Red Cross and Red Crescent shifts its focus to include catalysing, mobilising and convening citizen-led action as a potent mechanism for civic volunteerism, we must understand that this allows volunteers and young people to find their voice and stand up for the values we believe in and the causes they are passionate about. This will involve mobilising behind a cause that is of most concern to our collective humanity. An organisation of our kind, with our unique potential to exert considerable influence on decision makers across the world, has a manifest responsibility to do so.