NATIONAL SOCIETY PROFILE
The Latvian Red Cross was formed in 1918, two days after the Republic of Latvia was proclaimed an independent democratic state. It was admitted to the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in 1923. During the initial period of the Latvian Republic, the Latvian Red Cross took care of refugees and prisoners of war from the recently ended First World War. The Latvian Red Cross operations were briefly interrupted after Soviet occupation and then the interruption of the German authorities. However, the Latvian Red Cross resumed operations after the conclusion of the Second World War.
The Latvian Red Cross is currently present in all territories of Latvia through its six regional branches in the areas of Dienvidlatgale, Kurzeme, Vidzeme, Latgale, Zemgale, and Riga.
The National Society supports the public authorities in their humanitarian tasks according to the needs of the people in Latvia. The Latvian Red Cross has accumulated years of experience working with population that are vulnerable to social exclusion – individuals, groups, families with children, asylum seekers, refugees, among others. It helps people in crisis regardless of their nationality, race, religious beliefs, class, or political opinions.
The Latvian Red Cross Strategic Plan 2020-2030 focuses on the following overarching objectives:
Strengthen the National Society, including and especially at the level of departments and committees
• Promote compliance with and apply the principles of humanity in everyday life
• Work effectively within the IFRC and become an active cooperation partner in international projects
• Develop and improve cooperation of the Latvian Red Cross with the State and local government institutions, entrepreneurs, and private individuals In 2022, the Latvian Red Cross reached more than 50,000 people through its long-term services and development programmes.