Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2007. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies - 18 May 2007
Representatives from more than 50 European Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies will meet in Istanbul, Turkey, from 20 to 24 May, to discuss how to meet the needs of people living in the shadows of illegality in Europe, as well as those excluded from proper access to health care.
"It is essential we do more to bring vital aid to vulnerable migrants, regardless of their legal status, in order to protect their rights and health, and to help find sustainable solutions to their situation," said Juan Manuel Suarez del Toro, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. "Millions of people who leave their homeland, looking for a better life, often put their lives in danger and fall prey to exploitation, prostitution and human trafficking. As humanitarian actors advocating principles of humanity and impartiality, we must speak out on their behalf."
He added that Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers already played an "essential role" in providing services to vulnerable and marginalized groups, and in fighting the spread of HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis in Europe. But he added that these programmes must be expanded in order to respond to the increasing burden being placed on European health care systems by factors like disease, the continent's aging population and various socio-economic crises.
Around 300 people are expected to take part in the seventh European Regional Red Cross and Red Crescent Conference, representing National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Federation Secretariat, the International Committee of the Red Cross and partner organizations.
"Europe can no longer look at health and migration issues only within its borders," said Tekin K kali, Chairman of the Turkish Red Crescent, which is hosting the gathering. "Global interdependence and its new health risks point to the vital need for coordinated action between countries and the mobilization of all sectors of society to deliver more effective and sustainable humanitarian assistance. We have a collective responsibility to work together to meet today's humanitarian challenges, with realism, energy and determination."
In Istanbul, renewed emphasis will also be put on the importance of advocacy, as Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies look at how best to take advantage of their unique role working with governments, and within communities, to influence decision-makers and public opinion, in order to increase resources for assistance programmes and to fight racism and xenophobia.
For further information, or to set up interviews, please contact:
Elif Unal Arslan | Information Officer | International Federation | Tel. + 90 532 508 6904
Marie-Fran oise Borel | Communications Officer | International Federation |Tel. + 41 79 416 3881
Selahattin Bostan | Turkish Red Crescent |Tel. + 90 533 381 5429
070518
IF070501
Copyright © 2007 - International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the IFRC Contact.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from the Elton John AIDS Foundation, National Library of Medicine, and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2007. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2007. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .