Upholding humanity in the face of adversity is one of the key messages of World Red Cross Red Crescent Day which was observed yesterday, as they confront a world inundated by conflict, disasters, and unprecedented challenges.

Fine Tu’itupou-Arnold, secretary general at the Cook Islands Red Cross Society, said: “We are grateful for the continuous support of the Cook Islands government and the public in helping us deliver on our mandate under our Act.”

“Our role is to assist the public authorities in the areas of humanitarian services.

“As we celebrate World Red Cross Day this year, we are reminded that our work here in the Cook Islands is keeping the spirit of humanity alive in our communities and islands, we are proud to be part of this global mission.”

Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers worldwide are deeply embedded in their communities and provide a lifeline to millions each year through health programmes, disaster risk reduction efforts, and social inclusion activities.

In a statement, the International Committee of Red Cross said: “On 8 May, we commemorate World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, and celebrate local to global humanitarian action. It is a day when we honour the legacy of Henry Dunant, the pioneering volunteer who founded the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement more than 160 years ago. Above all, today is a day that we pay tribute to the millions of volunteers and staff working alongside people in need of protection, assistance, healthcare, social aid and solidarity.”