Pakistan Red Crescent Society

The Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) is the country’s foremost humanitarian organization, established in 1947 through an Act of Parliament. Operating as an auxiliary to the Government of Pakistan, PRCS holds a unique legal and operational status that enables it to provide impartial, neutral, and independent humanitarian assistance, particularly during emergencies and times of national crisis. Its auxiliary role is formally recognized under the Pakistan Red Crescent Society Act, which authorizes it to support public authorities in disaster response, health services, and humanitarian outreach. As a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, PRCS adheres to the Movement’s seven Fundamental Principles: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality. These principles guide all aspects of its work, ensuring services are delivered without discrimination based on nationality, race, religion, class, or political opinions. With a strong presence across the country through its provincial and district branches, PRCS plays a vital role in: 1. Disaster preparedness and response, providing life-saving aid during floods, earthquakes, and other natural or man-made disasters; 2. Health and first aid services, including mobile health units, blood donation drives, and ambulance operations; 3. Community education initiatives, such as the Risk Awareness and Safer Behaviours (RASB) program, which educates children and families about the dangers of unexploded ordnance and explosive remnants of war in coordination with ICRC. 4. Restoring family links in coordination with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), helping reunite families separated by conflict or displacement; 5. Youth and volunteer mobilization, with a growing network of over a million trained volunteers actively engaged in humanitarian activities. The PRCS also collaborates closely with government agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners to strengthen Pakistan’s disaster management system and promote community resilience. While it receives support and coordination from public authorities, its independence and neutrality allow it to operate effectively in sensitive environments where other actors may face access or trust barriers. Through its commitment to humanitarian values and its legally mandated role as the government's auxiliary in humanitarian services, the Pakistan Red Crescent Society remains a trusted, effective, and essential institution for crisis response and community support throughout the country.

Regions of MA operation

• Asia

Related mine action topics

• EORE