The ICRC, established in 1863, works worldwide to ensure humanitarian protection and assistance for people affected by conflict and armed violence. It takes action in response to emergencies and at the same time promotes respect for international humanitarian law (the law that limits the effects of war) and its implementation in national legislation. An independent and neutral organization, its mandate is based on the Geneva Conventions of 1949.

What they do 

The ICRC responds quickly and efficiently to help people affected by armed conflict. They also respond to disasters in conflict zones, because the effects of a disaster are compounded if a country is already at war. Emergencies are unpredictable, so their rapid deployment capability is hugely important.