Key Stakeholders Message - Dr. Halida Hanum Akhter
Dr. Halida Hanum Akhter,
Chairman, Bangladesh Red Crescent Society
The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) is not merely a humanitarian organization; it is a symbol of reliable trust in disaster management and the service of distressed humanity in Bangladesh. Established in 1973 by a Presidential Order following the Great War of Liberation in 1971, the organization has stood by the people of Bangladesh for over half a century. Guided by the principles of the Geneva Convention and the seven fundamental principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality BDRCS has evolved into one of the world’s largest and most powerful national societies through its vast network across 64 districts and hundreds of thousands of dedicated volunteers.
The scope of BDRCS's activities is immense and multifaceted. Due to its geographical location, Bangladesh is known as a disaster-prone country. Every year, natural disasters such as cyclones, floods, and river erosion disrupt the lives of the people. In every such crisis, the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society acts as the First Responder. Their Cyclone Preparedness Programme (CPP) is recognized as a global role model, saving thousands of lives by delivering early warning messages and conducting rescue operations. The organization's role in distributing relief, constructing emergency shelters, and rehabilitating victims in the post-disaster period is unique. Especially in this challenging era of climate change, they provide more than just relief; they train community members to adapt to disasters.
The contribution of the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society to the healthcare sector is also immeasurable. Red Crescent maternity hospitals and general hospitals operated in various parts of the country provide quality medical services at low costs. Its role in blood donation programs is particularly well-known. By collecting and supplying thousands of bags of blood every year, they help save the lives of countless critically ill patients. By raising awareness among the general public and providing first aid training, they are building a workforce capable of playing an immediate role in emergencies ranging from domestic accidents to national disasters. Furthermore, during global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of their volunteers in vaccination programs and awareness campaigns was akin to that of frontline warriors.
The greatest key to the organization's success is its youth volunteer force. Thousands of students from schools, colleges, and universities are joining the Red Crescent to learn the lessons of human service. This is not just service; it is playing a vital role in fostering leadership, ethics, and a philanthropic mindset among the new generation. Although it works as a strong auxiliary to the government, BDRCS maintains its own independence and neutrality, which has garnered the unwavering trust of the general public. Rising above political or religious divisions, their sole objective is to alleviate human suffering.
In conclusion, the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society is an indispensable partner in building a prosperous and disaster-resilient Bangladesh. By utilizing modern technology and innovative thinking, they are constantly improving the quality of their services. From blood donation to tackling climate change the active presence of BDRCS in every field reminds us that even if no one else is there in times of danger, the Red Crescent is. Their continuous journey in the service of humanity will continue to introduce Bangladesh to the world as a safe and humane country in the days to come.
