The “International Red Cross” is composed of: (1) The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) which focuses on war victims; (2) the LRCS; and (3) the 130 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies worldwide which are federated by the LRCS. The LRCS was founded to facilitate, encourage and promote the humanitarian activities of its member societies and thus contribute to the promotion of peace in the world. The LRCS considers health as one of the keys to a better world for everyone. Red Cross programs include the training of nursing personnel, the provision of health care in rural areas, the organization of assistance to the sick, aged, and handicapped, and teaching first aid skills to lay people.

The Red Cross bases its actions on seven principles: (1) Humanity; (2) Impartiality; (3) Neutrality; (4) Independence; (5) Voluntary Service; (6) Unity; and (7) Universality.

The LRCS assists national societies in improving their disaster relief preparedness through the following functions: (1) to encourage, facilitate and assist in the establishment of a national disaster relief plan; (2) to give technical assistance to national Red Cross societies by sending delegates and equipment and/or by giving cash grants; (3) to convene seminars and conferences to help exchange opinions and share experiences; (4) to train qualified personnel; and (5) to maintain contact with other international governmental and non-governmental organizations. These include the United Nations Disaster Relief Organization (UNDRO); the World Health Organization (WHO); the International Children's Fund (UNICEF); the World Meteorological Organization (WMO); the Food and Agricultural Organization/World Food Program (FAO/WFP); the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHR); and the United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).