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Doha, May 09 (QNA) - Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has celebrated the World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, observed on May 8, under this year's theme "United in Humanity."
In its statement on Saturday, QRCS called for putting humanity first, particularly by respecting the Red Crescent and Red Cross emblems worn by frontline aid workers - those who risk their lives and face immense challenges to save lives and alleviate people's suffering.
Commenting on the occasion, HE QRCS Managing Director and Secretary-General Eng. Ebrahim bin Hashim Al Sada said, "Throughout its almost-half-a-century history, QRCS has been a perfect representation of Qatar's impressive humanitarian image. As an active member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, its large-scale relief and development operations go far beyond borders to reach out to affected and underserved people in the four corners of the world."
"At all times, humanity has been our driving force to work harder and smarter towards the ultimate goal of serving humanity everywhere, without partiality or discrimination," added Eng. Al Sada. "At the same time, we harness the power of humanitarian diplomacy to advocate for the causes of vulnerable victims of disasters, conflicts, and poverty, inspired by the noble religious teachings, genuine Qatari traditions, and Fundamental Principles of the Movement."
"Now, more than ever, the world needs to enforce international laws and conventions that protect both civilians and aid workers during armed conflicts," His Excellency noted.
He added, "Over the past few years, there has been an alarming increase in attacks on humanitarian workers, who were visibly wearing Red Crescent or Red Cross emblems and were by no means involved in hostilities."
"Sadly, we at QRCS have lost beloved colleagues who were heroically providing relief and medical services in Syria, Gaza, and other conflict zones," said Eng. Al Sada, describing such actions as "blatant violations of the underlying principles of international humanitarian law (IHL) and the four Geneva Conventions", in addition to "grave betrayals of humanity."
"Aid workers are not just service providers; they are, first and foremost, human beings. Most of them come from the very affected local communities. They choose to volunteer and help their friends, neighbors, and family members. This should never make them a target. They deserve recognition and support," His Excellency concluded. (QNA)
