About Us

The Samoa Red Cross Society was established in 1952 as a branch of the New Zealand Red Cross. In 1983 the Samoa Red Cross Society was officially recognized by the government of Samoa through the signing of a memorandum of understanding, as a voluntary relief society auxillary to the public authorities and particularly to the medical services of the armed forces. As a recognized member of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies the Samoa Red Cross Society operates in accordance with the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

Samoa Red Cross Society shares our fundamental principles with 185 other national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.  These principles were adopted by the 20th International Conference of the Red Cross Vienna in 1965.

Humanity

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born of the desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavours, in its international and national capacity, to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found.  Its purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being.  It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace amongst all people.

Impartiality

It makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious belief, class or political opinions.  It endeavours to relieve suffering of individuals, being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress.

Neutrality

In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the Movement may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature.

Independence

The Movement is independent.  The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their governments and subject to the laws of their respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with the principles of the Movement.

Voluntary Service

It is a voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desire for gain.

Unity

There can be only one Red Cross or one Red Crescent Society in any one country.  It must be open to all.  It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its territory.

Universality

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which all Societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other, is worldwide.