We are part of the largest humanitarian movement in the world
The international Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is the largest humanitarian organization in the world with 191 national societies. The German Red Cross is part of this global community that has been providing comprehensive assistance to people in conflict situations, disasters and health or social emergencies for over 150 years, based solely on the level of need.
In the spirit of humanity, we are committed to the life, health, well-being, protection, peaceful coexistence and dignity of all people. Our idea is supported by around 15 million volunteers and members worldwide. In Germany alone, around three million members are involved.
German Red Cross
The DRK is a registered association with a democratic structure and supported by voluntary commitment. It acts selflessly, in accordance with its statutes, is non-profit and officially recognized as the national Red Cross Society of the Federal Republic of Germany. Volunteers and full-time employees work at all levels to help the disadvantaged and people in need. The DRK is deeply anchored in civil society.
Its constitution is recognized and justified under international law. As part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the DRK benefits from the framework and experiences of a global network and, through its international cooperation, supports its sister societies in solidarity in crisis situations and in strengthening local capacities. This is not comparable to any other organization in Germany.
Our special strength
The GRC, on the one hand, the umbrella organization for independent welfare and, on the other hand, a “voluntary aid organization of the German authorities in the humanitarian sector” with legally confirmed tasks. It therefore offers a wide range of services and offers under one roof. At the same time, the association is organized federally and is divided into local associations as well as district and state associations.
The GRC draws its particular strength from this and thus follows the principle of subsidiarity, according to which tasks should be carried out locally as much as possible. This principle applies to the state and the GRC itself. All of this shapes the GRC as an association, i.e. as an association of associations and non-profit organizations, and it is worth taking a closer look at some facets in order to better understand the GRC.
