A Guide to RCRC Meetings
2013
For you that are participating in an international meetings for the first time,
and want some tips on how to make the most out of it.
TABLE OF CONTENT1
1.0 Introduction……………………………………………………………………………………..p.3
1.1 Greetings from the IFRC Youth Commission…………………………………………………………………………..p.3
1.2 How to use this Guide……………………………………………………………………………………………………………p.3
2.0 Global RCRC Youth Conference 2013 (GYC 2013)……………………………….p.4
2.1 Global Youth Conferences……………..........................................................................................p.5
2.2 Historic Development of RCRC Youth………………………………………………………………………………………p.5
3.0 International Movement of RCRC (Movement)…………………………………..p.6
3.1 Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies (NS)…………………………………………………………………p.7
3.2 International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)……………………………………………………………………..p.8
3.3 International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)………………………………….p.9
3.4 Strategy 2020…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..p10
3.5 Youth in the Movement…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..p.11
4.0 RCRC Meetings…………………………………………………………………………………..p.13
4.1 IFRC General Assembly (GA).……………………………………………………………………………………………………p.13
4.2 Council of Delegates (CoD)………………………………………………………………………………………………………p.16
4.3 International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (IC)…………………………………………….p.18
4.4 Regional RCRC Conferences (RegCon)………………………………………………………………………………………p.19
5.0 How to Influence at the Statutory Meetings?.......................................p.20
5.1 Prior to the meetings……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….p.21
5.2 At the meetings……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….p.22
5.3 After the meetings…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..p.24
6.0 Statutory Meetings 2013 Agenda Items……………………………………………..p.24
6.1 General Assembly…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….p.24
6.2 Council of Delegate…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..p.39
7.0 Annex………………………………………………………………………………………………….p.48
7.1 Abbreviations and acronyms……………………………………………………………………………………………………..p.48
1
Copyright word cloud on the front page: Tagxedo
2
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Greetings from the IFRC Youth Commission
Dear youth delegate,
You are about to participate in some of the Statutory Meetings of the International Red Cross and
Red Crescent Movement. As a representative of your National Society you will take part in
discussions and decision-making that will help achieve the goals outlined in the Strategy 2020.
As members of the IFRC Youth Commission, we are very aware that attending the Statutory Meetings
can feel overwhelming. How do you behave? Where do you start to find all the information you will
need? How do you make sure that you are prepared to participate fully? To help answer these
questions, we have developed this guide.
This guide is available to you, your peers, and any of future youth leaders and youth delegates thanks
to the amazing work of the volunteers of the Norwegian Red Cross Youth. Habon Beegsi, Henriette
Håvardstein and Kaja Heidar have demonstrated youth leadership in action and we would like to
express our gratitude for their commitment, voluntary spirit, and the tremendous work they invested
in developing this guide.
In conclusion, we hope that this easy-to-read guide will help all youth delegates in preparations for
meaningful participation in the Statutory Meetings. Moreover, we believe that this guide, by
enabling active participation and relationship-building with senior leadership throughout the
meetings, will benefit the Red Cross Red Crescent work even after we all return home to our National
Societies. That is when and where our real work will start.
Ashanta Osborne-Moses
Chair, IFRC Youth Commission
1.2 How to use this guide?
This guide provides a brief overview and explanations of the most important Movement meetings.
Additionally, this guide sums up the agenda items that will be discussed during the 2013 General
Assembly (GA) and Council of Delegates (CoD).
Please kindly note that this guide is not meant to replace the official documents of the Statutory
Meetings. In fact, it is a starting point that will help you navigate in your preparations for meaningful
participation in the Statutory Meetings.2 In some of the sections, there are reflection points. These
are questions intended to help you formulate an opinion of your own. They are not meant to
influence your opinion.
All the information in this guide is taken from Red Cross Red Crescent sources like the Statutes of the
Red Cross Red Crescent Movement, the IFRC Constitution, IFRC Rules of Procedures, Strategy 2020,
and Red Cross Red Crescent online sources, current as of October 2013. The guide does not aim to
cover all the details laid out in these documents, and if you would like more information on a topic,
or if you need clarification, please turn to the above mentioned documents. Because this guide aims
to be brief, we have highlighted where you can find more information on the topic you are reading
about.
2
To get personal advice and tips for attending the Statutory Meetings read a brief message and advice from Sandy, the Youth Commission
member from the Americas, look here.
3
2.0 Global RCRC Youth Conference 2013 (GYC 2013)
Australians getting ready for the GYC 2013. Photo: Australian Red Cross
At the 2013 Global Youth Conference (GYC) you will meet youth leaders, staff, and resource persons
from all over the world. The conference is hosted by the Australian Red Cross and jointly organised
by the Australian Red Cross and the IFRC. It will be held in Australia prior to the General Assembly
(GA) and the Council of Delegates (CoD).
The conference will provide an opportunity for Red Cross and Red Crescent youth leaders to shape
the global humanitarian landscape. This will be done by discussing themes in the following three
thematic pillars.
Substantive Pillars
Pillar I: Setting a vision of the world beyond 2015.
Pillar II: Red Cross Red Crescent Youth shaping the humanitarian landscape through
implementation of the Youth Engagement Strategy (Y.E.S.).
Pillar III: Preparing for participation and interventions in the General Assembly and the
Council of Delegates.
There are no official procedures for making decisions at the GYC; however, one might agree upon
topics to promote at the GA/CoD and issues to follow up on after the GYC. The Youth Commission
will help you navigate the conference and facilitate the process of arriving at joint GYC conclusions
and recommendations. Active participation of youth delegates is vital to generate high quality
substance for the GA and CoD and for our work after we return home. Regional Red Cross Red
Crescent Youth Networks and the IFRC Youth Commission will follow up on the GYC conclusions
through their work plan.
4
2.1 Global Youth Conferences
The first Global Youth Conference was organised in Vienna, Austria in December 2012. This meeting
was not held in conjunction with a Statutory Meeting; it was executed as a cornerstone in the
development of the IFRC Youth Engagement Strategy. When it comes to the Statutory Meetings, it is
traditional to arrange a one-day meeting for youth delegates prior to the GA and CoD. However,
participation of youth delegates from many National Societies has been limited by various reasons.
In fact, neither the youth meeting prior to the GA, nor the GYC, are statutory requirements.
2.2 Historic Development of RCRC Youth
The first official association of young people with the Red Cross Red Crescent dates back to 1892. As
you will see from the table below and by reading the historic development of youth , it took some
time for the idea of youth engagement to gain ground.
Milestones of Youth Development
1947
Youth Advisory Committee established
1971
First World RCRC Youth Council convened
1991
IFRC Youth Policy and Strategy adopted
1999
IFRC Youth Policy and Strategy confirmed
2004
Tarragona Agreement featuring youth representatives profiles proclaimed
2007
Youth Commission established as a constitutional body
2009
Solferino Youth Declaration proclaimed
2011
IFRC Youth Policy endorsed
2013
IFRC Youth Engagement Strategy presented
2014
Global RCRC Youth Engagement baseline study finalized
2015
Post 2015 Development Agenda introduced
2017
GA (IFRC Youth Policy review, Global Youth Engagement Surveys) and CoD
2020
Strategy 2020 evaluation report
If you are interested in more detailed historic development of Red Cross Red
Crescent Youth, click here.
If you do not have an account for FedNet, the internal Red Cross Red Crescent web
site, you can create one here.
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REFLECTION POINTS
What is the purpose of having the GYC prior the statutory meetings in 2013?
Should youth delegates gather at a Global Youth Conferences prior to each GA
and then join their National Societies’ senior leaders at the GA and CoD?
What would be the added value for the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement and
your National Society in this permanent arrangement?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
3.0 International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is the world’s largest humanitarian
network represented by members, staff and about 15 million volunteers.3
The Movement is made up of three components:



National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (NS)
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)
The NSs, the ICRC and the IFRC together constitute a worldwide humanitarian movement, whose
mission is to prevent and alleviate human suffering.4 The components of the Movement are united
by the seven Fundamental Principles, and have their own legal identity, structure and role. 5 As
partners, the different members of the Movement support communities in becoming stronger and
safer through a variety of development projects and humanitarian activities. The Movement also
works in cooperation with a number of other actors in order to assist vulnerable people around the
world.
For a video presentation of RCRC history take a look at the film “The story of an
idea”
See a film on the Fundamental Principles here.
Look here for more information on the RCRC Movement
Read the statutes of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement here.
3
4
5
Estimate from the on-going “Global review on volunteering.”
Find the whole mission statement on p.5. http://www.standcom.ch/download/general/statutes/Statutes-EN-A5.pdf
http://www.standcom.ch/download/general/statutes/Statutes-EN-A5.pdf
6
3.1 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (NS)
Young volunteers participating at a camp. Photo: Austrian Red Cross
Currently, there are 189 Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies around the world.6 Each
National Society is made up of volunteers, members and staff, that provide a wide variety of
services, ranging from disaster relief and assistance for the victims of war and conflict to first aid
training and the restoration of family links.
National Societies support the public authorities in their own countries as independent auxiliaries to
the government in the humanitarian field. Their local knowledge and expertise, access to
communities, and infrastructure enable the Movement to reach people in need in the best possible
manner.7
To read more about National Societies go here.
Read article 4, from the Statutes of the RCRC Movement, on NS here.
6
7
http://www.icrc.org/eng/resources/documents/news-release/2013/06-24-south-sudan-red-cross-society.htm Accessed: 16.10.2013
http://www.ifrc.org/en/who-we-are/the-movement/national-societies/ Accessed: 16.10.2013
7
3.2 The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
Staff and volunteers from the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) provide vital relief to people in cooperation with the ICRC and IFRC.
Photo: Ibrahim Malla
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is an independent, neutral organization
ensuring humanitarian protection and assistance for victims of armed conflict and other situations of
violence. The ICRC also works to prevent suffering by promoting and strengthening humanitarian
law and universal humanitarian principles. 8
The ICRC directs and coordinates the international activities conducted by the Movement in armed
conflicts and other situations of violence. The work of the ICRC is based on the Geneva Conventions
of 1949, their Additional Protocols, its Statutes – and those of the International Red Cross and Red
Crescent Movement – and the resolutions of the International Conferences of the Red Cross and Red
Crescent.9
Read more about ICRC here.
Read article 5, from the Statutes of the RCRC Movement on ICRC here.
8
9
For the mission statement of the IFRC look here: http://www.icrc.org/eng/who-we-are/mandate/overview-icrc-mandate-mission.htm
http://www.icrc.org/eng/who-we-are/mandate/index.jsp
8
3.3 The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)
A boy with a skin disease gets free health care at a mobile health unit. IFRC supported the Pakistan Red Crescent Society in assisting 5
million torrential rains affected. Photo: IFRC
The IFRC is a membership organisation established by and comprised of the National Societies. It
currently consists of 187 National Societies10. At the GA in 2013 the admission of two additional
National Societies will be decided.11
The IFRC aims to inspire, encourage, facilitate, and promote at all times all forms of humanitarian
activities by National Societies, with a view to preventing and alleviating human suffering, and
thereby contributing to the maintenance and promotion of human dignity and peace in the world.12
It is a global humanitarian organisation that coordinates and directs international assistance
following natural and man-made disasters in non-conflict situations in cooperation with National
Societies. Its relief operations are combined with development work, including disaster
preparedness programmes, health and care activities, and the promotion of humanitarian values.13
In the IFRC the National Societies are grouped into four geographical regions: Africa, the Americas,
Asia and Europe.14
What is the Governing Board?
The Governing Board is the body that governs the IFRC between sessions of the GA. It meets twice a
10
It is 187 National Societies that are a part of the IFRC, but 189 NS in total.
https://fednet.ifrc.org/FedNet/Our%20IFRC/Statutory%20Meetings/General%20Assembly/GA2013/Documents/IP_1_3_Admission%20of
%20newly%20recognised%20National%20Societies.pdf Accessed on 16.10.2013
12
Article 4 (General object), IFRC Constitution (2007.)
13
http://www.ifrc.org/en/who-we-are/the-movement/ifrc/ Accessed on 16.10.2013
14
RoP: rule 24.2 and 25: http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/RoP-s4-en.pdf
11
9
year in order to make decisions.15 The Governing Board consists of: IFRC President, four VicePresidents, Ex-officio Vice-president, representatives of 20 National Societies, and the Chairs of the
Finance Commission and the Youth Commission.
Ms. Ashanta Osborne-Moses is the current Chairperson of the Youth Commission, and is a member of the Governing Board. Photo: Austrian
Red Cross
Read more about IFRC here: http://www.ifrc.org
3.4 Strategy 2020
Strategy 2020 voices the collective determination of the IFRC to move forward in tackling major
humanitarian challenges.
The strategic aims of Strategy 2020 are:
1. Save lives, protect livelihoods, and strengthen recovery from disasters and crises.
2. Enable healthy and safe living.
3. Promote social inclusion and a culture of non-violence and peace.
The enabling actions to deliver the Strategic Aims are:
1. Build strong National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
2. Pursue humanitarian diplomacy to prevent and reduce vulnerability in a globalized world.
3. Function effectively as the International Federation.
15
For the full list of the GB’s functions please look at article 23 p.17 in the IFRC Constitution.
http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/Constitution_revised-en.pdf
10
Read more about Strategy 2020 here.
3.5 Youth in the Movement
Youth on the move, World Red Cross Red Crescent Youth Meeting, Solferino, 2009. Photo: IFRC
The Youth Commission
The Youth Commission advises IFRC governance and management and National Societies on matters
that relate to young people. It seeks youth opinions worldwide and ensures that youth voices are
heard within the Movement.
The Commission is made up of young volunteers and staff of Red Cross Red Crescent National
Societies appointed in personal capacity by the General Assembly. There is a chairperson and eight
members, all under 31 years old at their appointment, who each serve four-year terms. There are
two members per geographical region. Appointments are made at alternating IFRC General
Assemblies.16
The current Youth Commission was appointed at the General Assembly in 2011. Members of the
commission are:
Chair
Ms. Ashanta Osborne-Moses – Guyana
E-mail: ashanta@gmail.com
16
RuP, rule 36, p.26 http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/RoP-s7-en.pdf
11
Africa
Ms. Salimata Konan – Côte d’Ivoire
E-mail: konankasali@yahoo.fr
Mr. Geoffrey Korir – Kenya
E-mail: grirok@yahoo.com
Americas
Mr. Michael Joseph – Antigua and Barbuda
E-mail: michaeljoseph.anu@gmail.com
Ms. Sandy Tesch Wilkins– USA
E-mail: stesch@gmail.com
Asia Pacific
Mr. Abdullah Al Razwan – Bangladesh
E-mail: razwan.nabin@yahoo.com
The second seat is currently vacant and under recruitment. A candidate is to be presented to the GA 2013 by
the Election Committee.
Europe
Mr. Mads Espersen – Denmark
E-mail: mads@urk.dk
Mr. Milan Mirkovic – Serbia
E-mail: drckmilan@yahoo.com
Youth Policy
The IFRC Youth Policy should be used as a starting point for National Societies in their effort to
meaningfully engage young people. At least 73 National Societies have developed their own youth
policies.17
Look here for the IFRC Youth Policy (2011), the IFRC Youth Engagement Strategy draft
(2013), and other key youth related documents such as the Solferino Youth Declaration
(2009), the Volunteering Policy (2011), and the amended Tarragona Agreement (2012).
Youth Networks
The youth networks promote youth leadership and exchange of concrete ideas, innovations and
activities. Red Cross Red Crescent Youth networks are formed on regional and sub-regional levels.
They are structured and they operate rather horizontally with varying degrees of formality. The
youth networks are established and maintained for the primary benefit of National Societies’ youth
actions targeting vulnerable groups in local communities.
Youth networks are led by youth leaders who apply peer to peer approaches in sharing,
coordination, and partnership building to generate knowledge, collect experiences, and record
lessons learned and best practices of both individuals and National Societies. Ownership of Red
Cross Red Crescent Youth networks should be shared between youth leaders and the adult
leadership of National Societies.18
17
Global Youth Consultation 2011: https://fednet.ifrc.org/PageFiles/127529/Global%20Youth%20Consultation%20report%202011.pdf
Red Cross Red Crescent Networking Guidelines 2013:
https://fednet.ifrc.org/FedNet/Resources%20and%20Services/Youth%20and%20volunteers/Guidlines%20for%20RCRC%20Youth%20Netw
orking%20EN.pdf
18
12
Read the “Youth Networks in the Red Cross Red Crescent; discussion paper” (2012), here:
Every Red Cross Red Crescent youth leader should read the “Red Cross Red Crescent Youth Networking
Guidelines.” Access them here.
4.0 Red Cross Red Crescent Meetings
In this section you will find the rules of procedures of the General Assembly, Council of Delegates,
International Conference, and the Regional Conferences.19
4.1 The IFRC General Assembly
A youth delegate speaking at the GA 2011. Photo: IFRC
The General Assembly gathers delegates from all member National Societies of the IFRC and meets
every second year. The General Assembly (GA) is the highest decision making body in the IFRC. The
purpose of the GA is to decide the general policies of the IFRC and to carry out elections. The GA also
determines the suspension and admission of National Societies to the IFRC.20
Who are the delegates?
A delegation consists of a group of representatives, not more than five members, from a National
Society and normally includes the President and the Secretary General. Each National Society has
only one vote.21
Election Committee
The Election Committee is appointed by the General Assembly, on the proposal of the Governing
Board. The Committee consists of one member of each of four geographical regions and a Chair. The
Election Committee meets at least once a year.
19
Take a look at the power-point found on this page for future explanations. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click at the
“Presentation on the 2013 Statutory Meetings”
20
For the full list of functions look at article 17, p.10 in the IFRC Constitution:
http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/Constitution_revised-en.pdf
21
Article 10. http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/RoP-s3-en.pdf
13
The work of the Election Committee is very important. As you might recognize from your own
National Society, the Election Committee ensures that capable and motivated people are proposed
as candidates for leadership positions in the IFRC. For example, the Election Committee looks for
people suitable for leading the IFRC as President, Vice Presidents, Governing Board members, and as
members of constitutional commissions and committees. They also oversee the secret ballot process
for the elections. 22
Candidates for the 2013 GA election can be viewed here.
Elections Procedures
Elections of the President and other members of the Governing Board are held every four years. The
appointments of the members of the Finance Commission, Youth Commission, Compliance and
Mediation Committee and Election Committee are made every four years, not coinciding with
elections of the President, Vice-Presidents and National Societies members of the Governing Board.
23
The IFRC President is elected by secret ballot, meaning that the votes are submitted anonymously.
The final list of presidential candidates is presented by the Election Committee during the GA. The
winner must have majority of the votes; if there is no majority, the voting will continue until one
candidate has absolute majority.24
The four Vice Presidents must represent the geographical regions of the IFRC. The elections are held
by secret ballot, after the election of the President. The National Societies may only vote for one
candidate per geographical region. The candidate receiving the greatest number of votes in each list
is then elected and appointed. If there is a tie in the voting, rounds are held until one candidate
receives a majority.25
After elections of President and Vice President, it is time for the election of the Governing Board
members. Again, geographical representation is important, and the candidates are divided into
geographical regions. The National Societies can vote for five candidates on each list. The five
candidates receiving the greatest number of votes in each geographical region shall be elected. If
there is a tie in the voting, rounds for that geographical region will be held until one candidate
receives a majority.26
Interventions
During the GA you may make interventions during the plenary sessions, or during the workshops.
Make sure you discuss this with your National Society delegation in advance. To speak you have to
get the permission from the chair (the one leading the session). You should keep your intervention
short, and not more than 10 minutes. If a delegation disagrees with an issue put to the vote, they
may appeal against this before the vote takes place. Make sure that you pay attention to when the
chair decides to close the list of speakers.27
Workshops
At the GA, there will be a number of workshops.
The workshops:
 Form a part of the official agenda of the 2013 General Assembly;
 Provide a forum for open discussion and exchange on issues in need for attention;
22
Article 32, IFRC Constitution: http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/Constitution_revised-en.pdf
Article 33, IFRC Constitution.
24
RoP rule 27; http://www.ifrc.org/en/who-we-are/governance/constitution/rules-of-procedure/
25
Rop rule 28: http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/RoP-s4-en.pdf
26
Rop rule 29: http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/RoP-s4-en.pdf
27
RoP rule 16 and 17: http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/RoP-s3-en.pdf Accessed on 22.9.2012
23
14


Intend to prepare recommendations/next steps;
Might present a decision resulting from the workshops to the GA Drafting Committee28
The table below shows how the workshops might lead to GA decisions.
Documents and agenda
The documents for the GA 2013 can be found here.
Each document comes with a recommendation on how the GA should treat the agenda item. The
abbreviation “IN” next to the agenda item indicates that the agenda item is for information. The “DE”
abbreviation indicates that the GA is to take a decision on the agenda item. The outcomes from the
GA are called decisions.29 The decisions of the GA are decided by voting, by either a simple majority,
or an absolute majority of the votes (more than 50% of the National Societies voting and present).30
Substantive items
There will be two theme umbrellas for the GA:


Realizing our potential and increasing our relevance
IFRC position on the post MDGs
You will find a short presentation of the documents in section 6.0; however, this will only help you
get an overview of the documents. To get a full understanding, you need to read the whole
document.
For more information and relevant GA rules, look here.
For more information on the workshops, look here.
28
Take a look at the power-point found on this page for future explanations. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click at the
“Presentation on the 2013 Statutory Meetings”
29
Look at the example of the GA decision from the 2011 here. Can you identify two decisions that are relevant for youth in the IFRC?
30
RoP rule 20 and 21: http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/RoP-s3-en.pdf Accessed on 22.9.2012
15
REFLECTION POINTS
Which GA agenda items are relevant for the 2013 Global Youth Conference?
Which GA decisions are going to be particularly relevant and important for
youth?
Which GA decision will be particularly important to your National Society?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4.2 Council of Delegates
Former Norwegian youth leader, and Youth Commission member, Camilla Helgesen (to the right) at the CoD 2009. Photo: IFRC
The Council of Delegates (CoD) is the only occasion when all the components of the International
Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (NS, IFRC, ICRC) have an opportunity to debate and decide
on global strategic issues together. This meeting happens every two years.
At the CoD we discuss and make decisions on how the Movement can best respond to pressing
humanitarian challenges and the future path of the Movement. We review resolutions adopted at
the International Conference in 2011 and prepare for the next International Conference, to be held
in 2015. 31 32
31
For more information read article 12,13,14 in the Statutes of the RCRC Movement:
http://www.icrc.org/eng/assets/files/other/statutes-en-a5.pdf
32
The Movement’s highest awards recognizing outstanding contributions to humanitarian action, the Henry Dunant medals, are given
out. 32
16
Who are the delegates and who can vote?
The CoD meeting brings together the ICRC, National Societies and the IFRC. Each of them has one
vote during the meeting. Decisions are normally made by consensus. 33
Rules and procedures
The International Conference, the Standing Commission, the ICRC, IFRC or National Societies can
refer issues to the CoD. The CoD cannot, however, give an opinion, pass a resolution or make a
decision in conflict with decisions already taken by an International Conference. When a CoD is held
just prior to an International Conference, it is responsible for proposing candidates to chair the
International Conference and fill other posts. It also adopts a provisional agenda for the
International Conference.34
Documents and agenda
The documents for the CoD can be found here.
The order of the agenda is as follows: Elections, Agenda and procedural matters, Awards ceremony,
Issues for debate and decision in plenary, and Workshops.
Issues for debate and decision in plenary:
We recommend you to pay particular attention to agenda point 6 “Movement coordination and
cooperation – Working together in the Movement: Issues and ways forward.” This point is expected
to be much discussed and is of crucial importance for the thriving future of the Movement.
Workshops:
The “Humanitarian Education Platform (HEP)” workshop, is strongly linked with the IFRC Youth
Engagement Strategy, and thus, we therefore recommend you to pay particular attention to this
agenda point.
You will find a short presentation of the documents in section 6.0, however; this will only help you
get an overview of the documents. To get a full understanding you need to read the whole
document.
Outcomes
At the CoD all the components of the RCRC Movement meet to debate and decide on global
strategic issues together. The decisions are called resolutions.35
Read more about the CoD here
33
http://www.icrc.org/eng/assets/files/other/statutes-en-a5.pdf
For more information read article 12,13,14 in the Statutes of the RCRC Movement:
http://www.icrc.org/eng/assets/files/other/statutes-en-a5.pdf
35
To check an example of a CoD resolution, please, look here for the 2011 resolution on “National Societies Preparing for and Responding
to Armed Conflict and Other Situations of Violence “: https://fednet.ifrc.org/PageFiles/90345/CD11_R7_NS_AC_OSV_EN.pdf
34
17
REFLECTION POINTS
What makes the CoD different from the GA?
Why is it important to have the CoD meeting?
What CoD agenda item do you find particularly important?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4.3 The International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (IC)
The International Conference is held every four years and brings together the States party to the
Geneva Conventions, the world's Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies, the IFRC, and the
International Committee of the Red Cross. The International Conference is the supreme deliberative
body for the Movement.36 The International Conference contributes to the respect for and
development of international humanitarian law and other international conventions of particular
interest to the Movement.37
Voting
The Conference always aims to reach decisions by consensus, but does occasionally vote on
resolutions. The States, National Society, the ICRC, and the IFRC have one vote each.38
Outcomes
The International Conference adopts resolutions that guide its participants in carrying out
humanitarian activities. In addition to resolutions, the International Conference members are invited
to submit voluntary pledges to undertake specific actions, individually or in partnership with other
members or observers of the Conference. Because of the wide participation, the International
Conference has considerable influence in global humanitarian affairs.39
Standing Commission
The Standing Commission is the trustee of the International Conference of the Red Cross and Red
Crescent. It the one body that meets on a regular basis where all the Movement components are
represented.40
In addition to its responsibilities regarding arrangements for International Conferences and meetings
of the Council, the Standing Commission shall:

Promote harmony in the work of the Movement and, in this connection, coordination
among its components

Encourage and further the implementation of resolutions of the International
Conference;
36
For more information take a look at the Statutes of the RCRC Movement, article 8,9,10 and 11:
http://www.icrc.org/eng/assets/files/other/statutes-en-a5.pdf
37
For whole list of functions take a look at the Statutes of the RCRC Movement, article 10
http://www.icrc.org/eng/assets/files/other/statutes-en-a5.pdf
38
http://www.icrc.org/eng/assets/files/other/statutes-en-a5.pdf
39
http://www.cicr.org/eng/who-we-are/movement/international-conference/overview-international-conference-of-the-red-cross-andred-crescent.htm
40
http://www.standcom.ch/ Accessed on 16.10.2013
18

Examine, with these objects in view, matters that concern the Movement as a whole. 41
Between Conferences, the Standing Commission provides strategic guidance in the interest of all
components of the Movement.42
Read more about the International Conference, click, here.
Read the important 2011 skills and value based education pledge.
Read the important 2011 resolution on furthering the auxiliary role.
REFLECTION POINTS
What makes the IC different from the GA and CoD?
What added value does the IC bring for National Societies and their work both
domestically and internationally?
How can NSs influence resolutions and pledges of the IC prior, during, and
after the meeting?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4.4 Regional RCRC Conferences (RegCon)
Illustration picture from the Model GA in Korea. Photo: IFRC
41
42
http://www.standcom.ch/ Accessed on 16.10.2013
Statutes and RoP of the RCRC Movement: http://www.ifrc.org/Docs/idrl/I290EN.pdf
19
A Regional Conference is a meeting of the National Societies of a statutory region, held every 4th
year. The purpose is to:




Promote co-operation, networking and partnerships amongst the National Societies of the
regions;
Identify common humanitarian concerns and issues;
Strive to achieve common strategies of implementation with regard to decisions of the
General Assembly, the Council of Delegates and the International Conference;
Make proposals to the Governing Board on matters related to the General Assembly and
the Statutory Bodies of the Movement.43
REFLECTION POINTS
Why are the Regional Conferences important?
What use can you make out of your Regional Conference?
When is the next one planned in your region?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
5.0 How to Influence at the Statutory Meetings?
Youth speaking at the 3rd World RCRC youth meeting in Solferino, 2009. Photo: IFRC
The next part of the guide was developed to guide participation at the GA and CoD. However, the
information might be relevant for other Red Cross Red Crescent meetings and contexts as well.
43
IFRC constitution article 38: http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/Constitution_revised-en.pdf
20
5.1 Prior to the meetings
The preparations for the GA and CoD start early, and therefore ideally you should start your
preparations early, too. However, many young delegates might not know if they are going to the
Statutory Meetings a long time beforehand. Do not let this stop you! Here are ways you can
participate even if you do not attend the meetings in person.
Here are some tips:
 Remember that each National Society has one vote, and goes as one delegation. Thus, working
together with the elected representatives that for sure are going to the Statutory Meetings is a
great idea, almost a MUST. Get to know who’s in your delegation and make sure that they know
that you are motivated and interested in making the most out of your participation. Show your
interest to learn and contribute.
 Reach out to your NS’s staff members who work with governance issues. Usually NS staff
members are highly involved in the preparations. Maybe they could help you stay informed and
help you make your voice heard? Identify your focal point among the staff members.
 Ask your National Society if they can regularly send you the official information they get
regarding the Statutory Meetings. NSs are often invited to join in a consultancy process on the
agenda and substantial items. Here you can give your input to your NS’s delegation members.
 Show interest in participating in preparatory meetings of all the delegates going to the Statutory
Meetings. If you cannot participate for logistical reasons, ask for the minutes and preparatory
materials to be shared with you. Often, the preparatory materials and briefings are heavy, full of
technical language, so be sure to ask for further explanations!
 Are you passionate about a particular topic that will be discussed during the meetings? Explore
opportunities with your National Society for delivering an intervention during the GA. Learn
about the internal agreements within your delegation on how you as a NS will join the plenary
discussions and make interventions during the workshops. Who is going to signal your NS’s
interest to speak to the Chair of the session? Who will speak after being given the floor by the
Chair of the session? Usually NSs assign a leader of the GA and CoD delegation before even
starting the trip. Who is the leader in your delegation?
 The Statutory Meetings are quite formal, and it’s expected that you wear formal clothes. Ask for
advice if you are in doubt. However, remember that what matters the most is your
contributions and not what you will wear.
 Be proactive and check the GA/CoD/IC FedNet web pages. The Youth Commission strives to keep
the information on the FedNet up to date. Visit the page to get the latest news.
 Ask the Youth Commission members from your region for support. They are experienced youth
leaders and they know what’s going on. Let them know if there are topics on the agenda that
you are passionate about. Often the Youth Commission is looking for people to sit in the drafting
21
committees, or participate in other ways in the statutory meetings. Maybe you can also
influence the Youth Commission to support your cause. Their contact information can be found
on FedNet. You can also reach out to former youth representatives in your NS who may have
experience attending statutory meetings.
 Is there a regional youth network that you could get support from, or that you could work
together with on promoting a topic? Information on youth networks can be found on the
FedNet.
 Stay up to date on key information regarding youth by subscribing to the Youth Commission
News Flash, sent out every month. If you are not receiving it, send an email to youth@ifrc.org
and put “News Flash” as the subject.
 Participate in the GYC pre-learning activities will help you prepare for the Statutory Meetings.
Learning Mission 1, Learning Mission 2, Learning Mission 3, Learning Mission 4
5.2 At the meetings
If you are going to the Statutory Meetings as part of your delegation, here are some tips for your
active and meaningful participation.
Here are some tips:
 Make sure that you know what’s going on at the GA and CoD. Read the agendas for the meetings
thoroughly. Which topics are the most important to you? Remember that your voice is
important because of the diversity it brings. As a youth delegate, you should contribute to all
topics that you have an opinion about, not only those that are about “youth issues.” It is
important to share your views and opinions with your delegation and follow protocol agreed on
by your NS’s delegation in making interventions or expressing views in discussions outside of the
official agenda sessions and workshops. You do not want to get yourself into an unpleasant
situation.
 Build relationships with your delegation members, network with them, and make sure that you
attend the delegation meetings at the GA and CoD. Try to lunch or dine with your delegation and
spend some good quality time with your colleagues. Let them learn about you and your work
with youth. Be helpful to other members of the delegation and use your skills (language, etc.) to
make the meeting a pleasant experience for them. Also, do not be afraid to ask them for help.
 Influencing your National Society voting is not the only way to make your voice heard at the
Statutory Meetings. The discussions that take place around the coffee machines or during dinner
are also important. Don’t be afraid to make your voice heard and share your views. Ask
questions and make an effort to learn the views of other members of your delegation and other
youth leaders. Be willing to learn about a new subject, or to share a thought on a topic that you
are passionate about. By sticking to one, or a few topics, you are more likely to bring new
perspectives to people you talk with. Remember that there is no harm in repetition, it makes
people remember your key points.
22
 Do not be afraid if you find yourself in the middle of unknown field or topic. The GA and CoD are
really very heavy meetings. The basic rule is to show your interest to learn. Remember,
everybody can have an opinion on everything, but what matters is to have a qualified opinion. It
is the qualified opinion that will make you stand out.
 People are often more inclined to listen to you if you approach them in a polite way. Make sure
that the discussion is carried out in friendly manner and is to the point. It is alright to agree to
disagree. Building relationships is crucial. Remember that you represent your NS and thousands
of peers, youth volunteers, members, and leaders of your NS.
 Ask other youth for tips on who might share your views. Can you align and make a strategy on
how to influence the highest number of delegates? If you join alliances for a cause, make sure to
do so in close consultation with the leader and other members of your NS delegation.
 Don’t be afraid to ask people in your delegation, the Youth Commission members, or other
resource persons for advice on how to conduct yourself and how to voice an issue of your
interest. People usually like when you ask for their advice.
 Stick to agreed positions from the GYC, and bring new unheard inputs to the YC and regular
meetings of youth delegates at the GA and the CoD.
 Attend the regular meetings of youth delegates throughout the GA and the CoD. Look out for
info signs, room and time allocations.
 Network with youth delegates from your region. You will meet new people and open doors of
opportunity.
 Have your notepad ready and ask the people you talk to for their contact information. Have your
business cards ready to share your contact information with them.
REFLECTION POINTS
What is the most important substantial item on the GA or CoD agenda for
you/your National Society?
Who should you speak with to increase the chances of getting your voice heard
at the Statutory Meetings?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
23
5.3 After the meetings
See section 3.5 “Youth in the Movement” for more information on strategic documents and people
you can contact to discuss how you can make youth voices heard in your National Society.
You should also:
 Organise follow up meetings with members of your delegation – keep in touch, and inform
them on how they can help you in your youth activities and plans.
 Keep in touch with the Youth Commission members from your region, and others you got to
know.
 Visit the Red Cross Red Crescent Youth Facebook page and the FedNet Youth pages.
 Subscribe to the Youth Commission email News Flash.
REFLECTION POINTS
How can you use the IFRC Youth Engagement Strategy to strengthen youth’s
role in your National Society? Who can help you with this big task?
What will you do after you will have arrived back home to your NS?
How will you inform your peers on the outcomes of the GYC and the Statutory
Meetings?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
6.0 Statutory Meetings 2013 Agenda Items
In this part of the guide there will be a presentation of the agenda items of the General Assembly
and the Council of Delegates.
6.1 General Assembly, Agenda.
In this section you will find an overview of all the documents and agenda items that will be
presented and discussed at the General Assembly meeting. For each item there is a brief explanation
of the main topic of the agenda point, and reflection points that aim to help you when you are
reading the documents.
All the GA documents can be found here, and the draft agenda can be found here. When you are at
the GA please pay attention to the order of the agenda, as the time different agenda items are
discussed, might not correspond with the numbering of the draft agenda below.
24
Overview of the Agenda Items
1. Procedural Matters
2. Accountability and Follow Up Reports
3. Financial Matters, and Plan and Budget
4. Reports of commissions, committees, advisory bodies and regional conferences
(written reports).
5. Elections
6. Substantive Items Strategy 2020
7. IFRC position on the post Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
1. Procedural Matters
This part of the agenda focuses on practical matters that needs to be decided in order to
start the meeting.
1.1 Roll Call
1.2 Adoption of the Agenda (revised) (DE)44
The agenda is provisional/temporary until it is adopted by the GA. You can find the provisional draft
agenda here.
1.3 Admission of newly recognized National Societies as members of the IFRC (DE)
A short description of South Sudan and Cyprus, the two National Societies that are to be formally
admitted as members of the IFRC.
REFLECTION POINTS
What is required in order to become a member of the IFRC?
What does it mean for a National Society to be admitted as a member of the IFRC?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
1.4 Approval of the records of the 2011 General Assembly (DE)
1.5 Appointment of the Drafting Committee (DE)
This document lays out the composition and terms of reference for the GA Drafting Committee (DC).
The Drafting Committee is responsible for drafting any decision at the Assembly’s request and then
modifying those decision documents according to the plenary debate. The Drafting Committee will
44
Look at page 15 for an explanation of DE and IN.
25
also make a report from the workshops, and, if requested, present a decision to be endorsed. In this
GA there are two youth leaders proposed as members of the DC.
REFLECTION POINT
Why is the Drafting Committee important?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
2. Accountability and Follow Up Reports
This part of the agenda will examine our work with regard to Strategy 2020.
2.1 The President statement on the state of the Federation (IN)
Mr. Tadateru Konoé, President of the IFRC, will provide an update on the state of the IFRC.
2.2/1 Report of the Governing Board (DE)
A report on GB priorities and achievements for 2012-2013, including a sum-up of the key work of
the Youth Commission and the Advisory Bodies, will be introduced. The governance review report
and recommendations for the next period is also included.
REFLECTION POINT
Why should youth know the general tone of this document?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
2.2/2 IFRC Policy Framework (DE)
This document presents the new draft of the IFRC Policy Framework. It has an overview of current
IFRC policies and suggests a classification of them based on the new IFRC Policy Framework.
26
REFLECTION POINT
Why are the current IFRC policies relevant to your National Society?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
2.3/1 Report of the Secretary General (IN/DE)
Report on the performance of the IFRC Secretariat since the GA in 2011. Some of the items
presented in the report will be discussed as separate agenda points. The report will be
supplemented by an oral report by Secretary General in the plenary.
REFLECTION POINT
What are the milestones for youth described in the report?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
2.3/2 National Society development framework 2013 (DE)
This document provides the basis to prepare strategies in support of National Societies development
at national, regional and global level. The National Society development framework will help leaders
in National Societies when they make decisions that affect the future of their organizations.
REFLECTION POINT
How does the document support youth engagement?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
27
2.3/3Secretariat decentralization review report (IN)
This review report identifies and suggests measures to be taken by the next Governing Board and
the Secretary General in order to continue to improve the management set up and working
methods of the IFRC.
REFLECTION POINTS
Has the decentralization of the IFRC Secretariat made any difference in regards to the
work of your National Society?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
2.3/4 Evaluation of the shelter role of the IFRC and Management Response Plan (IN)
The evaluation report and management response plan is a follow-up of a decision of the GA in 2011.
The evaluation reviews the progress of the IFRC taking a leadership role in the provision of
emergency shelter.45 Based on the evaluation report, the IFRC Management Response Plan outlines
the steps forward.
REFLECTION POINT
How does the IFRC emergency shelter play a role in current humanitarian crises?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
2.3/5 Update on the Implementation of the Federation-Wide Resource Mobilisation Strategy (IN)
The Federation-Wide Resource Mobilization Strategy (FWRMS) was approved by the GA in 2011. The
purpose of this document is to inform about actions taken and those that are to be carried out to
improve IFRC-wide resource mobilization in emergencies. This effort strives to diversify and sustain
our resources.
45
As defined by a decision of the GA in 2005 and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UN.
28
REFLECTION POINTS
How could your National Society be more strategic in resource mobilization?
Why is it important to have a coordinated approach to resource mobilization within
the IFRC?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
3. Financial Matters, and Plan and Budget
This part of the agenda will examine financial matters in the period of 2011-2013. Plan and
budget for 2014 and 2015 will be introduced.
3.1 Financial matters and 3.2 Plan and Budget (IN/DE)
In this agenda point the Finance Commission presents its report. This report includes Auditor’s
report for 2011 and 2012. A proposal of the plan and budget for the IFRC in 2014 and 2015 is also
introduced.
REFLECTION POINTS
Does the proposal for the 2014 and 2014 plan and budget reflect the priorities of
Strategy 2020?
How is the IFRC plan and budget important for the National Societies?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4. Reports of commissions, committees, advisory bodies and regional conferences
This part of the agenda presents written reports from commissions, committees, advisory
bodies and regional conferences.
29
4.1/1 Report of the Youth Commission including the Youth Strategy (IN)
A report of the work done by the Youth Commission during the last two years is presented. GA
endorsement of the IFRC Youth Engagement Strategy is proposed in the report.
REFLECTION POINTS
Which of the recommendations in the report do you find most useful for your
National Society?
In what ways can you influence the work that will be done by the Youth Commission
in their next two years?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4.2/1Report of the Election Committee (IN)
A report on the work of the Election Committee since 2011 will be presented. A report on the 2013
elections will also be delivered.
REFLECTION POINT
Why is the Election Committee important for the Governance of the IFRC?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4.3.1 Report by the Compliance and Mediation Committee46 (IN)
A report on the work done by the Compliance and Mediation Committee (CMC) since the GA 2011
and reflections on their future work will be presented.
REFLECTION POINT
Why is it important to have the Compliance and Mediation Committee?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
46
The Committee assists in resolving any potential breaches of integrity on the part of a National Society or any body46 of the
International Federation and helps settle any disagreements submitted to it.
30
4.4 Update on the regional conferences (IN)
4.4.1 The 8th Pan African Conference (IN)
This document contains description and highlights from the Pan African Conference 2012.
REFLECTION POINT
What important youth document came out of the Pan African Conference?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4.4/2 XIX Inter-Americas Conference, Montrouis, Haiti 2012 (IN)
This document contains description and highlights from the Inter-Americas Conference 2012.
REFLECTION POINT
What important document guiding National Societies in the Americas in their work
with volunteers and youth came out of this Conference?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
AG/4.4/3 Update on the Asia Pacific Regional Conference (IN)
This report is about the follow up of the 8th Asia Pacific Conference 2010. The next conference will
take place in China in 2014. The 2nd Asia Pacific Youth Summit will be organized before the
conference.
REFLECTION POINT
Why is it important to have youth conferences before all of the Regional Conferences?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
31
AG/4.4/4 Up-date on the 9th European Conference (IN)
The report presents the status of the preparation process for the 9th European Conference in 2014.
A youth gathering, known as the European Youth Cooperation Meeting, will be organized before the
conference.
REFLECTION POINT
Why is it important to look at past conferences when trying to find solutions for the
future?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4.5 Reports by Advisory bodies (IN)47
This agenda item presents the reports of the advisory bodies to the Governing Board. The reports
are submitted in writing and will not be presented.
REFLECTION POINT
After reading the reports, what do you think is the purpose of the Advisory Bodies?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4.5/1 Report of the Disaster and Crisis Management Advisory Body (IN)
The Disaster and Crisis Management Advisory Body shares the report on its work and proposes
revised Principles and Rules for Red Cross and Red Crescent Humanitarian Assistance for adoption by
the GA.
REFLECTION POINT
Is this agenda point related to what will be discussed in item 6 “Movement
coordination and cooperation – working together in the Movement: issues and ways
forward” of the CoD?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
47
The Advisory Bodies are established by the Governing Board.
32
4.5/2 Report by the Advisory Body of Humanitarian Principles and Diplomacy (IN)
This advisory body is a think tank aimed at providing guidance in regards to Strategy 2020 Strategic
Aim 3, and Enabling Action 2. This report presents its work.
REFLECTION POINT
How does your National Society use Humanitarian Diplomacy in its work?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4.5/3 Report by the Advisory Body of Sustainable Development and Health (IN)
This report from the Advisory Body of Sustainable Development and Health outlines the work done
for the last two years.
REFLECTION POINT
How is this document related to other agenda points of the GA or CoD?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4.6 Decisions falling out of the written reports
From all the written reports presented to the GA, the GA is expected to make a decision on the
following two documents:
i.
ii.
Revised Principles and Rules for RCRC in disaster response (DE)
IFRC Youth Engagement Strategy (DE)
33
REFLECTION POINT
Do you agree with the suggested decision of the GA on the IFRC Youth Engagement
Strategy as it is written in the Youth Commission report?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
5. Elections
In this part of the agenda the elections of the President, Vice-Presidents and Governing
Board members will take place.
This part of the agenda is when the elections of the President, Vice-Presidents and
Governing
place.
For a description of the election
process,Board
go to members
page 14 ofwill
thistake
guide.
For further information, read
the guidance on the Federation's election process.
Election of President (DE)
There are currently two candidates running to become the IFRC President. To learn more about the
Japanese Red Cross candidate, click here. To learn more about the Venezuela Red Cross candidate
click here.
Elections of the National Societies for the appointment of Vice-Presidents (DE)
In the table below you will see the National Societies that have put forward candidacies for
becoming Vice-Presidents. Go here to learn about the candidates.
AFRICA
Kenya
AMERICAS
Argentina
ASIA PACIFIC
Afghanistan
EUROPE
Croatia
Bolivia
Jamaica
China
Malaysia
United Arab Emirates
Italy
Election of the National Societies as members of the Governing Board (DE)
In the table below you will see which National Societies have put their candidacy forward for
becoming Governing Board members. Go here to learn details on the candidates.
AFRICA
Algeria
Botswana
Central African Rep.
Rep. of Congo
Egypt
AMERICAS
Bolivia
Costa Rica
Dominican Rep.
Guatemala
Honduras
ASIA PACIFIC
China
Fiji
Iran
Iraq
Malaysia
EUROPE
Azerbaijan
Belarus
Belgium
Denmark
Georgia
34
Ethiopia
Madagascar
Senegal
Somalia
Tanzania
Tunisia
Uganda
Trinidad & Tobago
Uruguay
USA
Philippines
Saudi Arabia
Syria
UAE
Italy
Romania
Spain
Turkey
UK
REFLECTION POINTS
What skills will be important for the next IFRC president to have?
What skills will be important for the next IFRC Vice-Presidents to have?
What skills will be important for the next Governing Board members to have?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
6. Substantive Items: Strategy 2020
This part of the agenda consists of one plenary session and four workshops, all related to
Strategy 2020. For more information on how the workshops are run, go to page 14 of this guide.
For more information on the substance of the workshops go here.
Realising our potential and increasing our relevance: Functioning effectively as IFRC (Plenary)
Questions of how do we achieve closer cooperation, improve quality, accountability and efficiency in
the way we work together within the IFRC and with National Societies will be discussed.
REFLECTION POINTS
What questions would be relevant to ask the panellists of this session?
What other agenda items focus on how the IFRC can function effectively?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
35
6.1 Better laws, safer communities: the role of National Societies in the development and
implementation of legislation for disaster risk reduction (Workshop)
The workshop will explore National Societies’ role in the development and implementation of
legislation for disaster risk reduction.
REFLECTION POINT
What legislation for disaster risk reduction exists in your country?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
6.2 Strengthening the culture of accountability, transparency and risk management (Workshop)
This workshop will explore how National Societies can take proactive and collective risk
management measures and on the foundation of sound management practice.
REFLECTION POINTS
Why are accountability and transparency important for your National Society?
Why are accountability and transparency important for the IFRC?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
6.3 Working towards a Movement wide approach to National Society development by building on
success stories and enhancing the learning culture (Workshop)
In this workshop National Societies will discuss and share experiences on National Society
Development. The key tools to be discussed will be the National Society Development Framework.48
REFLECTION POINTS
What can you bring back to your National Society from this workshop?
Do you have any best practices on organizational development to share?
48
See agenda point 2.3/2
36
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
6.4 Beneficiary communication: Promoting active engagement and wider participation of the
communities in our operations and programmes (Workshop)
The aim of this workshop is to increase participants’ knowledge of methodologies and innovative
approaches to beneficiary communication.
REFLECTION POINT
What parallels do you see between this workshop and the IFRC Youth Engagement
Strategy?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
7. Substantive items relevant to the Post-2015 Development Discussion
This part of the agenda consists of one plenary session and four workshops, all relate to the
Post-2015 development agenda. For more information on how the workshops are run, please
go to page 14 of this guide. For more information on the substance of the workshops go here.
IFRC position on the post Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) (Plenary)
Positions on the Post 2015 development agenda priorities will be discussed. A Red Cross Red
Crescent Post 2015 development agenda position paper will be introduced. You can read the draft
version here.
REFLECTION POINTS
How can your National Society work to influence your government’s position on the
Post-2015 development agenda?
Check out the Your Voice initiative and cast your vote.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
37
7.1 The UN Decade for Action for Road Safety 2011-2020’: Moving forward the implementation of
the IFRC pledge on the road safety to the International Conference.
This workshop will explore how National Societies can contribute to reducing death and serious
injuries as a result of road crashes. Proposition of the IFRC pledge on the road safety at the
International Conference 2015 will be explored.
REFLECTION POINT
Why should there be a pledge on road safety at the International Conference?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
7.2 Strengthening community resilience to address dynamic vulnerabilities.
The focus of this workshop will be around three interrelated key issues: A Revised Community Safety
and Resilience Framework; A draft IFRC position paper on resilience and the Draft modality for
longer term predictable and flexible financing.
REFLECTION POINTS
Why does resilience matter to the activities you do in your National Society?
How does resilience link to the IFRC Youth Engagement Strategy?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
7.3 National Societies implementing the Youth Engagement Strategy (IFRC Y.E.S)
This workshop will encourage National Societies to improve their engagement of youth as
volunteers, leaders and beneficiaries.
REFLECTION POINTS
How will you contribute to making this a successful workshop?
What is your National Society’s positions on the implementation of the IFRC Youth
Engagement Strategy?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
38
7.4 Disaster Management (DM) and Humanitarian Diplomacy (HD) in emergencies
This workshop provides an opportunity to discuss how to enhance the IFRC’s DM capacities
regionally and globally through exploring how HD in complex emergencies and disaster situations
opens up humanitarian space and creates response environments for our actions
REFLECTION POINTS
How does Disaster Management relate to strengthening resilience?
Why is Humanitarian Diplomacy and Disaster Management related?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
8. Miscellaneous
This means “other” agenda items. Only items which the General Assembly considers to be urgent
and important may be added to the agenda during the session.49
8.1 Date and venue of the next General Assembly
After the closing ceremony of the GA the Youth Awards, the Volunteering Awards and the Henry
Davison Award will be handed out.
6.2 Council of Delegates, agenda.
In this section you will find an overview of all the documents and agenda items that will be
presented and discussed at the Council of Delegates meeting. For most of the items there is a brief
explanation of the main topic of the agenda point with reflection points that aim to help you when
reading the documents.
An overview of all the CoD documents can be found here.50 The draft agenda can be found here.
Overview of the Agenda Items
I.
Elections, agenda and procedural matters
II.
Awards ceremony
III.
Issues for debate and decisions in plenary
IV.
Issues for introduction in plenary and discussion at the workshops
V.
Follow-up to the 2011 Council of Delegates
I.
Elections, agenda and procedural matters
This part of the agenda focuses on practical matters that needs to be decided in order to
start the meeting.
49
50
Rules of procedures “Final agenda” 8.4 p.9 http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Statutory/RoP-s3-en.pdf
You can also access the documents here: http://www.standcom.ch/cod-2013-documents/
39
1. Opening of the Council
2. Election of the Chair, Vice-Chair and Secretaries of the Council
The Council of Delegates shall elect the Chair, Vice-Chair and Secretariats of the Council of
Delegates51.
3. Adoption of the agenda of the Council of Delegates.
The draft agenda can be found here.
II.
Awards ceremony
In this part of the agenda we celebrate those that have done outstanding humanitarian
work.
Here the Henry Dunant Medal and the Red Cross and Red Crescent Prize for Peace and Humanity is
given out.
III.
Issues for debate and decisions in plenary
During this part of the agenda, the NSs, IFRC and ICRC will discuss and decide on resolutions.
A number of issues are brought up because previous Councils have decided to do so.
4. Nuclear weapons
The background report (CD/13/4.1)52 gives an overview regarding elimination of nuclear weapons
over the last few years. The Resolution (CD13/DR1)53 consists of a four-year action plan showing how
we will work towards the elimination of nuclear weapons.
REFLECTION POINTS
How does this resolution complement Resolution 1 of the 2011 Council of Delegates?
Check out the campaign of the Australian Red Cross.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
5. Strategy for the Movement
The draft of a new strategy for the Movement for adoption at the CoD 2015 will be introduced
51
52
53
Rop, rule 26: http://www.icrc.org/eng/assets/files/other/statutes-en-a5.pdf
Council of Delegates 2013 item 4.1
Council of Delegates 2013 Draft Resolution 1
40
(CD/13/DR2 and CD/13/5.1). A candid report from the Standing Commission suggesting changes in
the way the Statutory Meetings are conducted (CD/13.5.2) and a resolution following up on this
(CD/13/DR3) will be presented.
REFLECTION POINT
In which areas will the new draft of the Movement strategy help the Movement work
better together?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
6 Movement coordination and cooperation – working together in the Movement: issues and ways
forward
A draft resolution (CD/13/DR4) pointing out the importance of improving the coordination and
cooperation of the Movement will be discussed. The report on Movement coordination (CD/13/6.1)
and a vision paper (CD/13/6.2) are related to this agenda item. The CoD 2015 will follow up on this
agenda item.
REFLECTION POINTS
Does this agenda item relate to discussions at the GA?
Why is it crucial to improve coordination between the National Societies, IFRC and
ICRC?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
7. Memorandum of Understanding between the Palestine Red Crescent Society and the Magen
David Adom in Israel.
The report from the Independent Monitor is not yet available.
8. International Branding Initiative
A draft resolution (CD/13/DR6) on branding aiming to help National Societies, IFRC and ICRC develop
a better understanding of, and response to, the challenges posed by their respective Red Cross and
Red Crescent identities and brands at the local and international level. The branding guidance
document (CD/13/8.1), and branding toolkit (CD/13/8.2) are available to this agenda point.
41
REFLECTION POINTS
Can the Red Cross and Red Crescent be a logo, a brand identity and an emblem at the
same time?
Reflect on how the Red Cross and Red Crescent is portrayed in the media in your
home country. What does branding have to do with this?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
9. Weapons and International Humanitarian Law: Preventing the humanitarian consequences
originating from the development, use and proliferation of certain types of weapons
The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is concerned about the dangers of modern warfare. This
draft resolution (CD/13/DR7) states the Movement’s standpoints towards use and proliferation of
certain types of weapons.
REFLECTION POINTS
Are the rules of war up to date, considering the modernization of warfare?
How does the modernization of warfare effect the work of Red Cross and Red Crescent
Movement?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
10. Strengthening legal protection for victims of armed conflicts: implementation of Resolution 1
of the 31st International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent
The resolution (CD/13/DR8) expresses thanks to the ICRC for the report on the implementation of
Resolution 1 of the 31st IC and encourages National Societies to take part in the process. The progress
report (CD/13/10.1) describes how the Movement is working on the issue through research,
consultation and discussion. The main concern laid out is in two areas of International Humanitarian
Law (IHL): (1) the protection of persons deprived of their liberty in relation to non-international
armed conflict and (2) the effectiveness of mechanisms of compliance with IHL.
REFLECTION POINT
What can your National Society do to support the implementation of Resolution 1 of
the 31st International Conference?
42
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
IV.
Issues for introduction in plenary and discussion at the workshops
This part of the agenda consists of workshops, that will be introduced in plenary under the
following three broad headings:
The Changing Face of Humanitarian Action
The Fundamental Principles in Action
Relations among Components of the Movement.
WS1 Fundamental Principle of the Red Cross and Red Crescent
This workshop will present outcomes of dialog across the Movement about the challenges and
opportunities presented by the implementation of the Fundamental Principles. In addition the
workshop will discuss how the Movement can strengthen application of the Fundamental Principles
and decide the way forward leading up to the 32nd International Conference in 2015.
Look here for the outline of the workshop.
REFLECTION POINTS
How do you use the Fundamental Principles in your work?
Can you see any problems in applying the Fundamental Principles in the way you, your
National Society, IFRC or the ICRC work?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
WS2 Humanitarian Education Platform (HEP)
This workshop will discuss the definition of humanitarian education, share best practices and look at
how to advance this Movement initiative.
Look here for the outline of the workshop.
REFLECTION POINTS
How can you use the Humanitarian Education Platform in your work?
How is the HEP initiative related to the IFRC Youth Engagement Strategy?
43
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
WS3 Health Care in Danger: Health-care workers, volunteers and communities at risk54
In this workshop, participants will explore how they can promote and implement measures to limit
danger that health-care workers and volunteers are exposed to.
Look here for the outline of the workshop.
REFLECTION POINTS
How is this workshop relevant to the work youth do in your National Society?
Why is greater respect for health-care workers, volunteers and facilities important?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
WS4 Safer access and the protection of staff and volunteers
This workshop will raise awareness of how National Societies can provide safer access to people and
communities with humanitarian needs, while at the same time focusing on the importance and
means of protecting their staff and volunteers from harm. Recommendations will be made for policy
discussions at future Statutory Meetings.
Look here for the outline of the workshop.
REFLECTION POINTS
Is the theme of this workshop relevant for any of the other workshops at the CoD?
Why are future discussions on this topic needed?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
WS5 Persons with disabilities
54
Read the report here.
44
At this workshop participants will discuss a proposing a resolution on the topic of promoting
disability inclusion in the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
Look here for the outline of the workshop.
REFLECTION POINTS
Why is one discussing making a resolution on this topic at the CoD 2013?
How does your National Society promote disability inclusion?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
WS6 Promoting and Enhancing the Red Response: Working with External Actors
This workshop focuses on the Movement’s future strategy towards external actors and asks: How
can we best respond to emerging opportunities and the demands of external actors as well as make
better and more systematic use of the tools and policies we have developed? How do we bring out
the Movement’s unique capacity to alleviate human suffering?
Look here for the outline of the workshop.
REFLECTION POINT
What agenda items of the GA touch upon the same questions as this workshop?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
WS7 Addressing the humanitarian impact of “external shocks” on vulnerable migrants, host
populations and National Societies.
External shocks are shocks that affect National Societies by creating new or increased needs while at
the same time affecting their ability to mobilize resources to meet these needs. This workshop gives
45
National Societies, IFRC and the ICRC an opportunity to exchange views and experiences on coping
with such sudden events and look at the tools and options available.
Look here for the outline of the workshop.
REFLECTION POINT
Has your National Society experienced any “external shocks?”
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
WS8 Making the most of the International Conference: Outcomes of the 31st IC and preparing for
the 32nd IC in 2015.
This workshop will draw on the outcomes of the 31st IC Mid-Term review and the report by the
Standing Commission working group. It will discuss ways and means of further enhancing
implementation of the resolutions and pledges of the 31st IC in the lead-up to the 32nd IC, in 2015.
Look here for the outline of the workshop.
REFLECTION POINTS
Which resolutions and pledges of the 31st IC are the most relevant to your NS?
How can we make the IC continue to stay relevant for States?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
WS9 Movement responses to sexual and gender-based violence in armed conflict and disasters
The objective of this workshop is to promote understanding, awareness and information-sharing
about operational activities within the Movement to respond to and prevent sexual and genderbased violence. It will aim to identify future areas relevant in the lead-up to the 32nd IC.
REFLECTION POINT
Is this workshop relevant to you as a youth leader?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
46
V.
Follow-up to the 2011 Council of Delegates
1.Report on the work of the Standing Commission
This report is a regular report to the CoD. Read the report here.
2. Report on the Empress Shôken Fund
The Empress Shôken Fund has helped in building peacetime activities of RCRC NS through disaster
response operations and development programs for more than 100 years. This report sums up the
actions taken in the 2011-2013 period. Read the report here.
3. Report on the Joint ICRC/International Federation Commission for National Society Statutes
This report is submitted as a follow-up to Resolution 4 of the 2009 CoD “Revision of National Society
Statutes and legal base”. Read the report here.
4. Report on the implementation of the Movement Strategy on Landmines, Cluster Munitions and
other Explosive Remnants of War: Reducing the effects of Weapons on Civilians
This is a follow up report on Resolution 6 of the 2009 CoD “Movement Strategy on Landmines,
Cluster Munitions and other Explosive Remnants of War: Reducing the Effects of Weapons on
Civilians.” Read the report here.
5. Implementation report on the National Societies Preparing for and Responding to Armed
Conflict and Other Situations of Violence
This is a follow up report of the Resolution 7 of the 2011 CoD ”National Societies Preparing for and
Responding to Armed Conflict and Other Situations of Violence.“ Read the report here.
6. Progress report of Health Care in Danger
Follow up report of the Resolution 5 “Health Care in Danger” of the 31st IC in 2011. Read the report
here.
REFLECTION POINT
Why are these reports presented at the CoD?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
VI.
Closing of the Council
Confirmation of date and venue of the 2015 Council of Delegates.
47
7.0 Annex
7.1 Federation abbreviations and acronyms
Beneficiaries
CAS
CBFA
CBHW
CFW
CoD
Dips
DREF
EOC
ERU
FACT
FGM
FS
GA
Gender
Gender
equality
GWSI
HDI
Humanitarian
Education
IASC
ICRC
ICRC
IFRC
IFRC Y.E.S
IDRL
IHL
IMR
INGO
MDG(s)
NGO
Post 2015
PNS
Resilience
VCA
Individuals or groups who participate in, benefit from and/or are empowered by RCRC
programs and services.
Cooperation Agreement Strategy
Community-based first aid
Community-based health worker
Cash for work
Council of Delegates
Internally displaced people
Disaster Relief Emergency Fund
Emergency obstetric care
Emergency Response Unit
Field Assessment Coordination Team
Female genital mutilation
Food security
General Assembly
Term that refers to social differences between females and males throughout their life
cycle.
Gender equality ensures that there is no sex-based discrimination in the allocation of
resources or benefits, or in access to services
Global Water and Sanitation Initiative
Human development index
Education that enables young people and others to critically analyse events and
phenomena from a humanitarian perspective and prepares them for humanitarian
actions through voluntary services in the spirit of RCRC fundamental principles and
humanitarian values. It can include and cover basic rules of IHL and other relevant
bodies of law.
Inter-Agency Standing Committee
International Committee of the Red Cross
International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent
International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent
The new IFRC Youth Engagement Strategy. A strategy for all, not only youth.
International Disaster Response Laws, Rules and Principles programme
International humanitarian law
Infant mortality rate
International non-governmental organization
Millennium Development Goal(s)
Non-governmental organization
The post 2015 development agenda (after the MDGs)
Participating National Society
The ability of individuals, communities, organizations, or countries exposed to disaster
and crises and underlying vulnerabilities to anticipate, reduce the impact of, cope with
and recover from the effects of adversity without compromising their long-term
prospects.
Vulnerability and capacity assessment
48