Caribbean National Societies participate in XVIII Inter-American Conference

Caribbean National Societies are currently in Ecuador to attend the XVIII Inter-American Conference of the Red Cross which takes place from June 4 – 7.

The event which takes place every four years brings together youth, volunteers, delegates, observers and specialists in risk reduction, health and the promotion of non-discrimination.

It is expected that over 500 participants from the Americas will define the humanitarian agenda for the Red Cross in this region for 2007-2011.

Over the next few days it is expected that the Red Cross will have an approved Inter-American Plan which will provide them with the strategies for their work in the next four years.

The preparation process for the Inter-American Conference started well over a year ago and National Society representatives from the three sub regions of the Americas met in Ecuador, Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic to prepare the draft strategic documents on community risk reduction, community health and the promotion of non discrimination and respect for diversity.

The preliminary version of the Plan has been shared with all National Societies and volunteers, technical areas, government and management bodies have had the opportunity to analyze the document and send their comments and recommendations.

The Strategy 2010, the Global agenda and its Framework for Action will be articulated during this process, and the final result will contribute to voluntary action to achieve “a world of empowered communities, better able to address human suffering and crises.”

The first day of the meeting has been dedicated to youth and Mr Ian Courtenay, of the Belize Red Cross and the Youth Commission will chair that meeting.

It is expected that the youth participants will analyze the situation and context of Youth Red Cross in Latin America and the Caribbean and also reflect on the participation of youth in community work.