Tánaiste Simon Harris and Minister of State for International Development and the Diaspora, Neale Richmond, have announced €17.9 million in Irish Aid funding to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The support aims to bolster urgent humanitarian operations around the world, particularly in conflict and disaster-affected areas.
The funding will contribute to life-saving efforts, family reunification in conflict zones, and the promotion of international humanitarian law. It will also help strengthen locally led responses to disasters and the impacts of climate change.
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement—the world’s largest humanitarian network—comprises the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and 191 national societies.
This latest package brings Ireland’s total humanitarian support to the Movement to nearly €21 million for 2025. It follows a €3 million contribution earlier this year to the IFRC’s Myanmar Earthquake Appeal.
Breakdown of the €17.9 Million Funding Package:
- €12 million in core funding to the ICRC
- €5.9 million to the IFRC, including:
- €2 million in core funding
- €2.5 million to the IFRC’s Global Climate Resilience Platform
- €1.4 million to the IFRC Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF)
Tánaiste Simon Harris stated:
“The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement provides a lifeline to people affected by humanitarian crises worldwide. From life-saving assistance to promoting humanitarian law, we trust the Movement to deliver where it matters most. This funding supports their efforts to bring help, protection, and hope to those in urgent need.”
Minister Neale Richmond added:
“Armed conflict and climate-related disasters are increasing in severity and frequency. The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement plays a critical role in responding to these challenges. Ireland is proud to provide consistent and principled support to help them reach the most vulnerable and build community and climate resilience.”
The funding reflects Ireland’s ongoing commitment to international humanitarian assistance and reinforces its support for effective, locally driven responses to global crises.
