The International Year of Peace and Trust – Humanism and Neutrality

In today's world, humanitarian challenges are becoming increasingly widespread and complex. Among the main threats are the increasing frequency and severity of climate-related emergencies, including droughts, floods, wildfires, and other extreme weather conditions.

In these circumstances, the National Societies (NS) of the Red Cross and Red Crescent play a key role in providing assistance to the most vulnerable populations. They continue to operate within their mandated support role towards the state, while maintaining their commitment to the fundamental principles. With their unique status and presence in communities, they are able to respond quickly to emergencies, provide access to humanitarian aid, and contribute to building social resilience.

The purpose of the Meeting of the Heads of the National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies of the CIS countries and representatives of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross "International Year of Peace and Trust - Humanism and Neutrality" is to strengthen regional cooperation between the National Societies of the CIS countries in order to improve the effectiveness of responding to current humanitarian challenges. During the meeting, special attention was paid to the promotion of International Humanitarian Law, the strengthening of the auxiliary role and humanitarian activities based on principles, the development of humanitarian diplomacy, and the institutional development of National Societies. National Societies exchanged views on specific humanitarian issues in the CIS countries, as well as the difficulties and dilemmas faced in these areas. They also discussed their experiences in working with government agencies, the methods used to address challenges, and the lessons learned from these challenges. These topics correspond to the priorities of the resolutions of the 34th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent and the 2024 Council of Delegates.

In Turkmenistan, 2025 was declared the International Year of Peace and Trust by the UN General Assembly. In this context, the holding of this event in Turkmenistan is particularly important, as it is part of comprehensive initiatives and efforts aimed at promoting the principles of trust, mutual understanding, and partnership at the regional and international levels.