ANNEX 1 Outline of Code of Conduct

The following material is taken from the “Code of Conduct for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Disaster Relief,” sponsored by Caritas Intemationalis, Catholic Relief Services, the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Save the Children Alliance, the Lutheran World Federation, Oxfam, and the World Council of Churches (members of the steering Committee for Humanitarian Response), together with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Only the 10 basic principles identified in code are presented here. The actual guideline includes descriptive text accompanying each principle and several annexes and other explanatory material.

Principles of conduct for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and NGOs in disaster response programs

1. The humanitarian imperative comes first.

2. Aid is given regardless of the race, creed or nationality of the recipients and without adverse distinction of any kind. Aid priorities arc calculated on the basis of need alone.

3. Aid will not be used to further a particular political or religious standpoint.

4. We shall endeavour not to act as instruments of government foreign policy.

5. We shall respect culture and custom.

6. We shall attempt to build disaster response on local capacities.

7. Ways shall be found to involve program beneficiaries in the management of relief aid.

8. Relief aid must strive to reduce future vulnerabilities to disaster as well as meeting basic needs.

9. We hold ourselves accountable to both those we seek to assist and those from whom we accept resources.

10. In our information, publicity and advertising activities, we shall recognise disaster victims as dignified human beings, not as objects of pity.