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This report focuses on the Maldivian Red Crescent formation process.

In a world of global challenges, continued poverty, inequity, and increasing vulnerability to disasters and disease, the International Federation - with its global network - works to accomplish its Global Agenda, partnering with local community and civil society to prevent and alleviate human suffering from disasters, diseases and public health emergencies.

In brief

Programme summary: The Maldives is one of the few countries in the world without a national Red Cross or Red Crescent society. Prior to the December 2004 tsunami many of the locals had never heard of the Red Cross. The process of forming a local national society was initiated in September 2005. In January 2008, the International Federation launched Appeal 2008-2009 for the Maldives, outlining programmes that are focused essentially on creating the environment for a national society to be established and begin its work. There are hopeful indications that this process could be completed soon, following the submission of a Red Crescent Bill to parliament.