History Of the Malta Red Cross

Malta Red Cross was set up on the 24th of October, 1991.

IFRC confirmed MRC Statutes on the 26th of October, 1992

On the 19th of June, 1992, the Malta Red Cross Society Act passed unanimously in the House of Representatives, establishing the MRC in accordance with the Geneva Conventions.

1st April, 1993, the Maltese Government approved that the MRC be given special recognition as an independent, voluntary relief society, auxiliary to the public authorities. History Of the Malta Red Cross.

You can download the Malta Red Cross Act and the Statue.

History Of the Gozo Branch

The Gozo branch of the Malta Red Cross Society started on and off in between the years 1996 - 1999. When the Malta Red Cross started, Red cross activity in the island of Gozo mainly consisted in giving basic first aid courses to the general public. This was followed by the formation of adoc committees which had the responsibility to start setting up the branch. However this proved futile.

However back in 1999, The Italian Red Cross, lifeguards spent the whole summer running beach posts in three popular beaches around the island. Soon 15 youths joined in the Red Coss and first aid posts started to be offered at public events. This greatly increased the image of the Red Cross. A committee was set up and the branch started in operation. Activities ranged from first aid activities, water rescue, and ambulance service and in giving general first aid courses to the public.

In the year 2000 the IFRC delegate Mr Eduardo Romero visited us he noted that legally we did not exist. There was nothing in the statue related to branches. Thus the volunteers in Gozo remained inactive for the rest of the year.

The year 2001 saw the amendments of the statue being done, and the branch now legally approved opened again its doors. A branch committee under the chairpersonship of Dr J. Rapa was formed. The Branch was then officially opened on the 16th Fereuary 2002.

Our Mission

Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity.

Vision

Our vision is to be one of the leading humanitarian organization in Gozo.

Values

Our operational procedures are based on the humanitarian values, as expressed in our Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross movement.

Red Cross Fundamental Principles

In 1965, the seven Fundamental Principles were adopted by the 20th International Conference. They were developed to link together the International Committee, Federation and National Societies.

All Red Cross programs and activities are guided by the Fundamental Principles of Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity and Universality. These principles allow us to provide help immediately to whomever needs it, wherever they are, whatever their race, political beliefs, religion, social status, or culture.

Humanity

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born of desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavors, in its international and national capacity, to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect life and health to ensure respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, co-operation and lasting peace amongst all peoples.

Impartiality

It makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavors to relieve the suffering of individuals, being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress.

Neutrality

In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the Movement may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature.

Independence

The Movement is independent. The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their governments and subject to the laws of their respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with the principles of the Movement.

Voluntary Service

It is a voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desire for gain.

Unity

There can only be one Red Cross or one Red Crescent Society in any one country. It must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its territory.

Universality

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which all Societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other, is world-wide.

Volunteers take part in several activities such as:

• Ambulance Service
• First aid Service
• Disaster Response & Preparedness
• Water Rescue Service
• Refugee & Social Assistance
• Human Support
• International Humanitarian Law
• Youth