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NATIONAL SOCIETY PROFILE
The Sri Lanka Red Cross Society was established in 1936 and admitted to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in 1952. It has been operating a range of humanitarian services for the last eight decades.
It was formed as a volunteer-based organization under the name Ceylon Central Council Branch of the British Red Cross Society. Its primary purpose was to provide assistance during disasters, including the malaria epidemic. Today, the Sri Lanka Red Cross, a highly esteemed humanitarian organization, has an established island-wide network. The National Society has an extensive national network in first aid, blood, and health services and is recognized as an essential service provider.
The Sri Lanka Red Cross works closely with the Government of Sri Lanka, in particular with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Disaster Management. The National Society’s Strategic Plan 2018-2021 (new plan for 2024-2030 is in draft stage) describes three strategic aims:
• Build resilience among vulnerable communities to cope with disasters and emergencies
• Reduce risks of morbidity and mortality during health emergencies and promote health lifestyles amongst communities
• Reduce stigma and discrimination in society through improved community behaviour and increase social acceptance whilst upholding human dignity, working with different vulnerable disadvantaged groups.
In 2021, the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society reached more than 17,000 people through its long-term services and development programmes and more than 1.5 million people through its disaster response and early recovery programmes over time.