Red Cross international work: How we're helping the world
The Red Cross provides international aid to help people around the world in emergencies and support refugees and survivors of trafficking, and those facing chronic hunger.
Often within hours of an emergency – or even before it’s happened – our emergency response units in the local Red Cross or Red Crescent National Society are on the ground keeping people safe. We work as part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, with millions of volunteers in over 190 countries helping around the world to prevent or ease human suffering.
How we're helping
On 28 March, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar.
The humanitarian needs are serious and we need your help – the more money we can raise, the more people we can reach with vital support.
Donate now to help those who need support
In Gaza, people are on the brink and are struggling to find food, unable to access clean water and living without safe shelter.
Renewed hostilities and a pause in aid delivery has left millions of lives in the balance.
Donate to the Gaza Crisis Appeal today
We specialise in getting the right aid to the right place as quickly as possible, following international humanitarian law of armed conflict, and helping to build strong communities that can withstand and recover from disasters.
Where we're currently working
Alongside the emergency response in Sudan, Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon, Red Cross and Red Crescent societies around the world are constantly working to help people in need.
The Red Cross' international emergency response
Gaza Crisis Appeal
The humanitarian situation is devastating. Donate now and help us support people who need it.
Give to the Disaster Fund
When a flood, hurricane, or wildfire strikes, we respond immediately. Your donation will be used to fund emergency response to disasters and urgent medical care.
What does the British Red Cross do internationally?
We are a neutral, independent and impartial organisation, guided by seven fundamental principles. Our neutrality allows us to reach people caught up in conflicts or other crises across the world. When these emergencies cause people to flee their homes, the Red Cross provides disaster relief, helping make sure they have food, shelter and other help they need. We also support those facing chronic hunger.
The British Red Cross' Global Surge Team
For our Global Surge Team, the front line of a disaster is only ever 48 hours away. When needed, they support all 192 international Red Cross and Red Crescent societies before, during and after a disaster strikes.
What countries do we work in?
Other ways we are helping around the world
Find out more about the Red Cross' international work, from humanitarian policy to overseas jobs.
Work with us
Interested in international work with the Red Cross?
How we work in emergencies
We specialise in getting the right aid to the right place as quickly as possible in an emergency.
Humanitarian policy
The British Red Cross works on humanitarian policy issues to support people around the world.
The international Movement
We don’t work alone. We’re part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the world’s largest humanitarian network.
Research and publications
Our research shines a light on issues happening in the UK and overseas, and helps to bring about change.
Protecting people in armed conflict
Even war has rules. Find out more about the Geneva Conventions and the protective power of our emblem
Read stories about the Red Cross' international work
International stories
The Red Cross and our partner National Societies around the world are helping people to stay safe.
Sudan humanitarian aid and support
Find out how the Red Cross Red Crescent movement is supporting people affected by conflict and in need of humanitarian aid in Sudan.